Allopurinol Improves Heart Function in African Americans With Resistant Hypertension

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · May 23, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at whether a medication called Allopurinol can help improve heart function and quality of life for African American veterans who have resistant hypertension, meaning their high blood pressure remains high even with multiple treatments. The study aims to see if taking Allopurinol for 8 weeks can make a difference for these individuals, specifically focusing on their heart health and ability to exercise.

To participate in this study, individuals need to be African American veterans with resistant hypertension, which means their blood pressure is over 140/90 despite taking three different blood pressure medications. Unfortunately, people with certain conditions, such as heart failure or chronic kidney disease, cannot join the trial. Participants will receive the medication and will be monitored throughout the study to assess any changes in their heart function and overall well-being. If you're interested and meet the criteria, this could be an opportunity to contribute to important research that may help others with similar health issues in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
• • 1. Veteran
• • 2. African American
• • 3. Resistant hypertension diagnosis (defined as blood pressure greater than 140/90 mmHg at 2 clinic visits despite the use of 3 antihypertensive medications at pharmacologically effective doses)
• • 4. Locale - Birmingham, AL and surrounding areas
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. History of heart failure
• • 2. Chronic kidney disease (estimated creatinine clearance \< 60 ml/min)
• • 3. Chronic steroid therapy
• • 4. Known coronary artery disease
• • 5. Known causes of secondary hypertension
• • 6. Already taking Allopurinol
• • Magnetic Resonance Imaging Exclusion
• • 1. Claustrophobia
• • 2. Cardiac implantable electronic device (permanent pacemaker and/or intracardiac defibrillator)
• • 3. Metal clips and/devices or other item that specifically prohibit safe CMR