Two-Drug Combination Approved for High Blood Pressure

MONDAY, Jan. 21 (HealthDay News) -- Tekturna HCT -- a combination of the drug Tekturna (aliskiren) and the diuretic hydrochlorothiazide -- has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat high blood pressure, maker Novartis AG said Monday.

Clinical testing found the combination tablet "offers greater blood pressure reductions that either component alone," the drug maker said in a statement.

Approved last March, Tekturna inhibits rennin, an enzyme responsible for hypertension. The second drug, a diuretic, helps rid the body of excess water and salt.

Tektruna HCT will be available in early February, Novartis said. The most common adverse effects reported include dizziness, flu-like symptoms, diarrhea, cough and tiredness.

More information

The FDA has more about Tekturna.