UAE First Globally to Approve New Hypertension Drug

The United Arab Emirates just made medical history by becoming the first country worldwide to approve Baxfendy, a new treatment for high blood pressure that works differently than existing medications.

Developed by AstraZeneca, the drug targets aldosterone production, addressing the underlying causes of uncontrolled hypertension rather than just managing symptoms. This first-in-the-world approval reflects how seriously the UAE takes innovation in healthcare.

But that's just one piece of a bigger story. The Emirates Drug Establishment also greenlit Neffy, the first needle-free nasal spray for severe allergic reactions, making the UAE the first country in its region to offer this alternative to traditional injectable epinephrine. Meanwhile, the Department of Health in Abu Dhabi introduced Foundayo, a daily oral obesity treatment, making the UAE only the second country globally after the United States to approve it.

These approvals build on an impressive track record. In 2025 alone, the UAE approved pioneering therapies for immune disorders, progressive multiple sclerosis, spinal muscular atrophy, and sickle cell disease. The country also became the first destination outside the United States to offer Tremfya for inflammatory bowel diseases.

The UAE's leadership in fast-tracking innovative treatments isn't new. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it became the first country to authorize monoclonal antibody treatment for emergency use. In neurological care, it was second globally to approve Aduhelm for early-stage Alzheimer's disease.

The Ripple Effect

When one country moves quickly to approve safe, effective treatments, it creates pressure on regulatory systems worldwide to speed up their own processes. Patients in the UAE gain access to potentially life-saving medications months or even years before people in other countries, but their experience also provides valuable real-world data that helps other nations make faster, more confident approval decisions.

The UAE's approach combines speed with safety, proving that rigorous medical standards and innovative healthcare can work hand in hand. For patients living with obesity, hypertension, or severe allergies, this means access to better treatment options right now, not years from now.

Millions of people worldwide will eventually benefit from these same treatments, and the UAE's willingness to lead the way helps make that happen faster for everyone.