A single pill each day could protect against heart attacks, strokes

London: A new single daily pill which could protect against heart attacks and strokes is being tested by a team at London’s Wolfson Institute, who will offer it to 100 patients for 12 weeks.

The all-in-one ‘polypill’ is a combination of a range of medicines to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure instead of patients having to take several tablets, reports the Daily Express. The pill has low doses of the cholesterol drug simvastatin and low doses of three blood pressure drugs. The idea was first suggested in 2003 when scientists said its widespread use “would have a greater impact on the prevention of disease in the western world than any other single intervention.” If the latest trial turns out to be successful, the pill could be offered on prescription for the over 50s within two years. ANI