Study of the Effectiveness of Telmisartan in Slowing the Progression of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Study of the Effectiveness of Telmisartan in Slowing the Progression of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

The purpose of this study is to determine if telmisartan is effective in slowing the progression of abdominal aortic aneurysms and reducing circulating concentrations of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) biomarkers.

Currently, the only management options for AAA are surgical (open or endovascular) based on ongoing follow-up with imaging at regular intervals. Telmisartan is currently approved for use in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration for management of hypertension. If telmisartan is found to be effective in slowing the progression of abdominal aortic aneurysms, this would provide a new treatment option for patients with AAA disease.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 50-85 years of age and able to provide written informed consent
• AAA measuring a maximum diameter of 3.5-4.9 cm on CTA or ultrasound
• Stable medication regime for the last six months
• No current indication for AAA repair according to the treating physician or expectation that this will be revised within the next year
• High likelihood of compliance with treatment over 24 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Renal impairment (i.e. creatinine >1.5x upper limit of normal [ULN])
• Known significant renal stenosis (>70%) of one or both renal arteries
• Chronic liver disease (i.e. cirrhosis or hepatitis) or abnormal liver function (i.e. ALT 1.5xULN)
• Electrolyte imbalance
• Active gout
• Current or planned usage of an AT1 blocker or ACE inhibitor
• Previous abdominal aortic surgery
• Currently pregnant or intend to become pregnant