India just took a giant leap in managing hypertension! A groundbreaking clinical trial has found that combining two common drugs—Amlodipine, Perindopril, and Indapamide—is five times more effective at controlling high blood pressure (BP) than using a single drug.
This isn’t just another study—this is a life-changing discovery for millions battling hypertension in India, where BP control rates have been shockingly low for decades.The Big Reveal
The trial, named TOPSPIN and sponsored by Imperial College, London, tested the efficacy of three two-drug combinations—amlodipine and perindopril, amlodipine and indapamide, and perindopril and indapamide, was conducted by experts at AIIMS. The researchers randomised 1,981 adults with high BP—aged 30 to 79 (median age 52)—at 35 hospitals in India. Of the patients, 42 were women.Here’s what they found:

1. The two-drug combos controlled BP in 70% of participants, a massive jump from India’s current 11%-20% success rates.

2. These combinations weren’t just effective; they were safe and well-tolerated. Only 3% of participants reported side effects.

3. Beyond BP control, the Amlodipine-Perindopril duo even helped reduce fasting blood sugar levels, making it ideal for those with diabetes.

Why Does This Matter?
Hypertension is a silent killer, affecting 30% of Indians, yet only a fraction get treated effectively. With this new evidence, doctors in India can confidently recommend these combination therapies, which lower BP faster and more effectively.
“This study fills a critical gap in hypertension care for South Asians. It provides clear evidence to choose the right drug combinations for our population,” said Dr. Ambuj Roy, a lead researcher from AIIMS.What’s Next?
The results are expected to influence India’s hypertension guidelines, which have so far relied on global standards that don’t always suit Indian patients.
Experts also believe this study will have ripple effects globally, helping doctors better treat hypertension across the South Asian diaspora.
As Dr. Neil Poulter, a researcher from Imperial College London, put it, “This is a game-changer for BP management in India and beyond.”The Bottom Line
This is more than a medical milestone; it’s hope for millions of Indians who struggle with high BP daily. If you or a loved one battles hypertension, this might just be the news you’ve been waiting for—proof that managing BP doesn’t have to be a losing battle anymore.