Angiotensin II Receptor Blockade in Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (ARCADE) research study:

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Summary: This is an ongoing research trial in France.  All patients on the study are taking the beta-blocker Celiprolol.  The doctors leading this study are looking into how adding another medication, called Irbesartan, effects patients with vascular EDS. Will it help lessen stress on our blood vessels and decrease the number of 'bad' events (dissections, aneurysms, etc.)?

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What is Irbesartan? 

Irbesartan is a type of drug called an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB).  Angiotensin is a chemical made in our body. One of its jobs is to 'constrict' (narrow) your blood vessels. Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers work like their name implies. They block the chemical Angiotensin II. The result is that your blood vessels stay more dilated (open), your blood pressure is lowered, and there is less strain on your blood vessels. 

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Why is Irbesartan being studied?

Reducing blood pressure in patients with vascular EDS is thought to be beneficial. Irbesartan accomplishes this. It also decreases a particular cell signaling pathway which is increased (abnormally elevated) in vascular EDS.  With the thought being that reduction in the 'expression' of these pathways might help reduce the symptoms of the disease.  We will have to wait for the results of the study to know if Irbesartan does (or does not) have a positive impact on vascular EDS patients and their symptoms.

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A link to clinicaltrials.gov for the ARCADE trial