High Blood Pressure Vaccine on the Horizon

03/12/08 Treatment Options

An estimated 50 to 80 percent of hypertension (high blood pressure) patients do not take their medication regularly. These patients are more likely to sustain heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure.

But pills may eventually become a thing of the past for patients with mild to moderately high blood pressure. Researchers in the March 8, 2008 Lancet report success with a vaccine that circulates antibodies, or proteins that neutralize foreign bodies such as with infections, that reduces the effect of angiotensin. Angiotensin is a protein that narrows blood vessels, causing blood pressure to rise. Angiotensin is strongest during the morning and daytime (what is referred to as “ambulatory blood pressure”), and the vaccine appears to be capable of controlling it during those peak periods. Since the majority of cardiac events occur during early daylight hours, this research could significantly impact treatment and therapy choices.

The study conducted by Cytos Biotechnology AG in Switzerland, was first presented at the American Heart Association 2007 Scientific Sessions. Seventy-two patients received the CYT006-AngQb vaccine. It was effective for approximately four months and there were no serious side effects noted. Study leaders conceded the vaccine did not make all participants immune to hypertension, but did reduce blood pressure significantly.

While these finding are a giant step toward alleviating a potentially devastating malady, it is too soon to draw any conclusions as to the efficacy of the vaccine. The size of the test population was small, and there are questions regarding dosage and the reversal of the vaccine’s effects. Authors indicate the body can resolve such matters. Angiotensin II, the prime, is needed to control sudden drops in blood pressure in cases of dehydration, shock, and illness. Researchers will have to address those safety concerns before the vaccine can be considered a viable alternative to oral medication.

Corie Richter is a nurse and physician's assistant who started her career as a health educator. The survivor of a myocardial infarction (heart attack) and partially successful quadruple bypass surgery, she did not let her health challenges hamper her. Neither the limitations of spinal surgery nor of diabetes have deterred her from a mission of service. She now encourages others through writing and speaking engagements to master their disabilities through education and a proactive attitude.