Allopurinol helps improve heart function in African Americans with high blood pressure

Allopurinol Improves Diastolic Function in African Americans with Resistant Hypertension

NIH-funded research Birmingham VA Medical Center · NIH-10869948

This study is looking at how the gout medication allopurinol affects heart function in African Americans with stubborn high blood pressure, to see if it could help improve heart health for those who struggle to control their blood pressure.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBirmingham VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10869948 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of allopurinol, a medication commonly used to treat gout, on heart function specifically in African Americans who suffer from resistant hypertension. The study focuses on individuals who have difficulty controlling their blood pressure despite taking multiple medications. By examining how allopurinol impacts diastolic function, the research aims to provide insights into potential new treatment options for heart failure in this high-risk population. Participants will be monitored for changes in heart structure and function over the course of the study.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are African American adults aged 21 and older who have resistant hypertension.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as African American or those without resistant hypertension may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved heart health and quality of life for African Americans with resistant hypertension.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using medications like allopurinol to improve heart function, particularly in populations with high rates of hypertension.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.