Allopurinol Improves Diastolic Function in African Americans With Resistant Hypertension
African American adults in the United States have the highest prevalence rate of high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure in the world. African Americans with treatment resistant hypertension have higher levels of the enzyme - xanthine oxidase compared to Caucasians. This trial will test if administration of the xanthine oxidase inhibitor - Allopurinol (commonly used in the treatment of gout), given over a period of 8 weeks, will improve heart function, exercise ability and quality of life in African American Veterans with resistant hypertension.
⁃ In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
• Veteran
• African American
• Resistant hypertension diagnosis (defined as blood pressure greater than 140/90 mmHg at 2 clinic visits despite the use of 3 antihypertensive medications at pharmacologically effective doses)
• Locale - Birmingham, AL and surrounding areas