Anyone who has suffered with pre-eclampsia during their pregnancy will know that it is a very serious condition – so the news that a treatment is on the way will comfort a lot of women.
Scientists in Australia claim to have had a breakthrough in treating the condition, which arises during pregnancy when the placenta releases toxins into the blood. It is characterised by high blood pressure and fluid retention, and poses a serious risk to Mum and Baby.
‘Astonished’ medical experts at the Translational Obstetrics Group at Mercy Hospital for Women, in Melbourne, have figured out a treatment in the form of the drug esomeprazole. The drug is commonly used to treat reflux and indigestion.
The team has so far carried out experiments on laboratory mice, with very favourable results: the esomeprazole successfully reduced high blood pressure, which is the driving force behind the condition.
Researchers are so positive about the research results that they believe a treatment for pre-eclampsia could be ready within the next five years.
Commenting on the findings, lead researcher Dr Natalie Hannan said: “We actually can’t believe how great the drug is working to block these toxins.”
