Researchers from Penn State College of Medicine developed a new measurement technique to assess norepinephrine release in tissues adjacent to blood vessels. This improvement allows for more accurate data on the hormone's role in vasoconstriction and maintains adequate blood pressure when standing up.
The Val-HeFT study found that valsartan significantly reduced total heart failure hospitalizations and morbidity, with a 27.5% delay to first hospitalization. Valsartan also attenuated the increase in norepinephrine levels associated with heart failure.
A genetic defect in the norepinephrine transporter has been identified as a key player in orthostatic intolerance, a condition that causes racing hearts, nausea, and dizziness. The discovery may lead to new understanding of blood pressure control and treatment strategies for this common clinical problem.