Professor Working On First-of-its-kind Drug For High Blood Pressure

Groundbreaking research by a Mercer University College of Pharmacy professor could unlock new treatment options for people with drug-resistant high blood pressure. This condition disproportionately affects African Americans and some of the general population, leading to increased heart attack and stroke risks.

Dr. Raquibul Hasan, assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences, was awarded a two-year $154,000 grant from the American Heart Association this spring to further his work in this area. He is also applying for additional research funding, including a $3 million grant from the National Institutes of Health.

More than 50 percent of adults in the United States have high blood pressure — hypertension. This condition develops over time and is a “silent killer” that, without proper treatment, damages the blood vessels. This can cause harm to the heart, kidneys, eyes, and other parts of the body, increasing the risk for medical conditions like heart attack and stroke, Dr. Hasan said. Read more