The FDA has approved a polypill as an initial treatment for hypertension in adults for the first time.
Here’s what to know:
1. Widaplik — manufactured by George Medicines — is a polypill that contains telmisartan, amlodipine and indapamide.
2. Historically, monotherapies have been the initial treatment for hypertension. This is the first triple-combination medication to be approved for patients who are likely to need multiple drugs to achieve their blood pressure goals, according to a June 9 company release.
3. In trials, the polypill reduced systolic blood pressure by around 7 to 8 mm Hg versus placebo in people with mild-to-moderate hypertension. It also showed small but significant blood pressure reductions compared to other dual drug combinations.
4. Widaplik is expected to be available in fourth-quarter 2025.
