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HypertensionSeptember 2023Summary reviewed June 2026

What TARGET-HTN Found — Lorundrostat for Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure

Researchers tested lorundrostat, a drug that blocks aldosterone production, in 200 adults whose blood pressure stayed high despite taking multiple medications. After 8 weeks, the 50 mg daily dose lowered systolic blood pressure by about 10 points more than placebo.

What the trial was testing

The TARGET-HTN enrolled 200 patients with hypertension. The study was sponsored by Mineralys Therapeutics Inc. and tracked outcomes across the full group of patients who matched the trial's eligibility profile.

It was initial testing (phase 2). Trials at this stage are designed to produce evidence regulators and physicians can act on — not just observations to follow up later.

What the results showed

Lorundrostat lowered systolic blood pressure by nearly 10 mm Hg more than placebo in people with treatment-resistant hypertension.

JAMA · 2023 · NCT05001945

These findings — that blood pressure dropped an extra 10 points with the 50 mg dose compared to placebo — were published in the JAMA and represent the headline result of the study.

Researchers tracked outcomes across 200 patients enrolled in the trial. The result was consistent enough across the group that the team felt confident reporting it.

What this means for patients

For patients with hypertension, this result changes the calculus on what to ask their care team about. Whether it changes day-to-day care depends on factors like disease subtype, prior treatments, and where the patient is in their care journey.

What you can do now

This was an initial testing study and lorundrostat is not yet FDA-approved. The results were promising for people whose blood pressure doesn't respond well to standard medications. If you have uncontrolled high blood pressure despite taking multiple drugs, talk to your doctor about whether you might qualify for a clinical trial testing this approach.

Eligibility for the treatments mentioned above depends on specific test results and clinical history. Bring this summary, the trial name, and your most recent labs or pathology report to your next visit.