Preeclampsia breakthrough: Hope for mothers and babies

A novel drug trial is generating significant optimism for managing preeclampsia, a severe and potentially fatal complication during pregnancy. Abigail Hendricks, who participated in the trial, described her fifth pregnancy, which was complicated by high blood pressure, headaches, and blurred vision, indicative of preeclampsia.

Initially treated with adjusted medication and rest, Hendricks' condition worsened, with her blood pressure reaching dangerous levels. Preeclampsia, characterized by damage to blood vessels and fluid imbalances, poses grave risks of seizures, organ damage, and hemorrhage for both mother and child. The medical team deemed her life and her baby's in danger.

Professor Cathy Cluver of Stellenbosch University has been researching preeclampsia treatments for a decade, noting the severe toll it takes, causing an estimated 42,000 maternal deaths annually worldwide. The experimental drug, DM199, developed by DiaMedica Therapeutics, functions by stabilizing blood vessels and improving blood flow, addressing the core issues of preeclampsia.

Initial trial results were met with skepticism, but a significant breakthrough occurred when the 16th patient's blood pressure stabilized dramatically after receiving the drug. Subsequent patients also showed positive responses. While further research is needed, the drug's potential to lower blood pressure without compromising blood flow to the baby is highly promising.

Experts like Corneila Graves and Kara Rood acknowledge the trial's potential, emphasizing the need for larger studies. They are particularly interested in the drug's ability to prolong pregnancies and improve neonatal outcomes. Hendricks, patient number 24, successfully delivered her healthy son, Hayden, after her blood pressure stabilized with the new medication.