Strommen

Hypertension is a widespread condition linked to serious heart problems like stroke, heart attack, and heart failure due to increased strain on the heart. This trial focuses on the role of heart hormones called atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), which help regulate blood pressure and heart-kidney function but may be altered in people with cardiovascular disease. The study aims to explore the biology and treatment potential of BNP, a hormone naturally produced by the heart and already used for acute heart failure, to improve hypertension therapy. Participants will receive either nesiritide, a drug form of BNP, or a placebo to find the best dose for treating uncontrolled high blood pressure. This study includes patients with hypertension who are already on at least one blood pressure medication. The treatment is evaluated in controlled phases to determine its effects compared to no active drug. During the study, participants' blood pressure changes will be closely monitored over 48 hours, from before the first injection through 12 hours after the last injection. Researchers will collect data to assess how nesiritide affects blood pressure and ensure safety throughout the trial. The study includes adults aged 18 to 79 years with specific blood pressure criteria and ongoing medication regimens.

Erythromelalgia is a rare condition causing red, warm, and painful extremities, often triggered by warmth. Its cause is not fully understood, and managing pain is difficult because no single treatment works for everyone. Patients often experience lower quality of life due to persistent pain. This trial seeks to test how effective spinal cord stimulation is for treating pain that does not respond to other treatments in erythromelalgia. The study compares two procedures: burst spinal cord stimulation, which delivers complex high-frequency pulses to manage pain, and a sham spinal cord stimulation where a device is implanted but no stimulation is given. Participants first undergo a two-week trial with tonic stimulation to see if their pain improves by at least 2 points on a pain scale. Those who qualify then continue with the assigned treatment. Participants will be adults aged 18 or older with chronic, treatment-resistant erythromelalgia pain lasting at least six months and a minimum pain score of 5 out of 10. Researchers will monitor changes in pain levels over six months. The study includes regular assessments of pain intensity and safety monitoring by the study physician throughout the trial.