RecruitingInterventional

Using health information and blood tests (metabolites) to personalise the treatment of high blood pressure

This study, called HYPERMARKER, is exploring new ways to treat high blood pressure, which affects many adults and can lead to serious problems like strokes. Currently, choosing the best combination of medicines for each person can be tricky, sometimes causing side effects or blood pressure that isn't well controlled. The researchers are testing a 'smart approach'. This involves giving doctors extra details from your medical history and special blood tests, analysed by computers. These blood tests look for tiny natural substances in your body that might show how you'll react to certain medicines. The goal is to help doctors pick the right treatment from the start, making it more personal and effective for you.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

University of Birmingham

Enrolment target

400

Start

09 Mar 2026

Estimated completion

01 Oct 2026

Hypertension

What is this study about?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is very common in adults and can cause serious health problems if not treated. These can include strokes or heart attacks. Medicines can help lower blood pressure and reduce these risks significantly. However, there are many different types of blood pressure medications, and finding the best combination for each person can be difficult. Sometimes, this can lead to uncomfortable side effects or blood pressure that doesn't come down as much as it should.

This study, called HYPERMARKER, is trying to improve how doctors choose blood pressure medications. They're developing a 'smart approach' that combines your usual health information with special blood test results. These blood tests look for tiny natural chemicals in your body called metabolites, which might give clues about how you'll respond to different medications. This information is then processed by computer programs to give doctors tailored advice.

The main idea is to see if giving doctors this extra, personalised information helps them make better decisions about your treatment. This could mean fewer side effects, better control of your blood pressure, and ultimately, better health outcomes for you. The study hopes to make blood pressure treatment much more individualised and effective for everyone.

Key takeaways

This study aims to find better ways to choose blood pressure medication.
It uses special blood tests and computer analysis to give personalised advice to doctors.
You'll get a free blood pressure monitor and app for home use.
Participation involves blood tests, home blood pressure readings, and questionnaires.
The study lasts about 9-16 weeks for each person.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or older who have recently had a high blood pressure reading and need to start taking medication for it.

However, some people might not be able to take part. This includes those with very high blood pressure (180 or more) or those who might have another specific cause for their high blood pressure, like certain kidney problems or hormone conditions. If you've had a stroke or heart attack in the last six months, or if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you also won't be able to join.

If you're already taking three or more blood pressure medications, or if you have severe kidney or heart problems, this study might not be right for you. Your doctor will help you figure out if you meet all the requirements.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Do you have high blood pressure that your doctor says needs medication?
Are you currently taking fewer than three blood pressure medicines?
Are you not pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding?
Have you not had a heart attack or stroke in the past six months?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, the first step is to sign an agreement form. Then, the study team will gather details about your health and any medicines you're taking, measure your weight and blood pressure, and take a blood sample. You'll also fill out a questionnaire about what you ate recently. You'll then receive a blood pressure machine and a mobile app to use at home throughout the study. You'll start by recording your blood pressure at home for one week, taking at least two readings in the morning and evening for three days. You'll also answer some questionnaires about your health and how you use healthcare services.

You'll be randomly put into one of two groups. In Group A, your doctor will adjust your medication as they normally would. In Group B, your doctor will have extra information from the smart approach to help them choose your medication. After four weeks, everyone will have their medication reviewed again, and this time, all doctors will use the smart approach information. You'll then monitor your blood pressure for another four weeks and complete more questionnaires. The questionnaires can be filled out on your phone, tablet, or computer. The whole process is expected to last about 9 to 16 weeks.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may help future patients with high blood pressure, as the information gathered could improve how doctors treat the condition. You might also benefit directly by receiving a blood pressure monitor and app to track your blood pressure at home, which can help ensure it stays under control. You'll also have access to special blood tests that aren't usually available. However, there are some potential risks. You'll need to have at least one blood test, which can be a bit uncomfortable and might cause temporary bruising. Your medication will likely be changed during the study, and while your body adjusts to new treatments, your blood pressure might go up and down. Remember, you can choose to leave the study at any time, for any reason.

Locations (4)

University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
City only
Birmingham, England
University Medical Centre Utrecht
Approximate
Utrecht, Netherlands
University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf
City only
Hamburg, Germany
INCLIVA, Biomedical Research Institute
City only
Valencia, Spain

Common questions

What is 'high blood pressure'?

High blood pressure means the force of your blood pushing against your artery walls is too high. This can lead to serious health problems like heart attacks or strokes over time.

What are 'metabolites'?

Metabolites are small natural substances in your body that come from your metabolism – the processes that keep you alive. They can give clues about your health or how you might react to medicines.

Will I have to visit a hospital often?

Most of your blood pressure monitoring will be done at home using a special machine and app. You'll also complete questionnaires on your own device. The main contact with the study team will be at the start and for medication reviews.

How long will I be in the study?

Each person is expected to take part for around 9 to 16 weeks from start to finish.

Who is paying for this study?

The study is funded by the European Union and UK Research and Innovation.

How to find out more

Alastair Mobley

a.mobley@bham.ac.uk +44 (0)1213718145 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.