Testing Dose-Optimization App for Zestril in Hypertension

Closed Loop Medicine and Pharmanovia have initiated the OptiZest study, a clinical trial designed to evaluate a novel combination therapy targeting hypertension. Launched as part of a 2023 collaboration, this study will assess the efficacy of a drug-plus-software approach in managing blood pressure. Specifically, the trial will determine whether Zestril (lisinopril), combined with Closed Loop's Software-as-a-Medical Device (SaMD) technology for dosing optimization, can better control blood pressure for patients at home. The study has already enrolled its first participant.

James Burt, CEO of Pharmanovia, highlighted the significance of this proof-of-concept study. He noted that it "sets the stage for development and launch of one of the first drug and software combination products for hypertension." Burt emphasized that this approach will help clinicians personalize treatments more efficiently, aiming to find the optimal balance between treatment efficacy and minimizing unwanted side effects.

This partnership builds on encouraging results from previous studies. Research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association demonstrated that Closed Loop's SaMD platform, when used in conjunction with the calcium channel blocker amlodipine, effectively controlled blood pressure, reduced side effects, and supported high adherence to medication regimens. These results underscore the potential of integrating software solutions with traditional drug therapies to enhance treatment outcomes.

The medical community has shown a positive reaction to this innovative approach. For instance, a snap-poll conducted by FirstWord in February revealed strong support among cardiologists for tools that enable better dosing precision for hypertension medications. The positive feedback indicates a readiness in the healthcare sector to adopt technology that can improve patient outcomes through more precise treatment strategies.

Further extending its reach, Closed Loop Medicine entered into an agreement with Teva's UK division in March. This partnership aims to leverage Closed Loop's SaMD platform to enhance dosing precision and improve the efficacy and outcomes of treatments for specific chronic disorders. This collaboration signifies a growing trend in the healthcare industry to integrate digital health technologies with traditional pharmaceutical approaches to address chronic health issues more effectively.

In summary, the OptiZest study represents a significant step forward in the development of combination therapies for hypertension, combining pharmaceutical and digital health innovations. The collaboration between Closed Loop Medicine and Pharmanovia aims to refine and personalize hypertension treatments, potentially setting a new standard in medical care. Early positive feedback from both the medical community and previous study results suggest that this innovative approach could lead to better management of hypertension and improved patient outcomes.