Title:Enzyme Inhibition in Managing Cardiovascular Diseases
Volume: 20
Issue: 2
Author(s): Shivendra Kumar*, Sunam Saha, Arockia Babu, Mohit Agrawal, Kuldeep Singh, Hema Chaudhary and Khushboo Lavania
Affiliation:
- Department of Pharmacology, Rajiv Academy for Pharmacy, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
Keywords:
Cardiovascular diseases, enzyme inhibition, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure, neprilysin inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), platelet aggregation.
Abstract: Enzyme inhibition stands as a crucial strategy in tackling cardiovascular diseases (CVDs),
countering their significant global impact on health. Targeting key enzymes involved in critical disease
pathways has emerged as a pivotal pharmacological approach across various cardiovascular
conditions. In hypertension, ACE inhibitors effectively lower blood pressure by impeding the conversion
of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, promoting vasodilation and reducing cardiac workload.
CAD management often involves statins, which competitively inhibit 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutarylcoenzyme
A reductase, thereby lowering cholesterol levels and curbing plaque formation in coronary
arteries. For heart failure, neprilysin inhibitors combined with ARBs exhibit promise by preserving
beneficial peptides, supporting heart function and regulating fluid balance. Aspirin, an irreversible
COX enzyme inhibitor, reduces platelet aggregation, mitigating thromboxane A2 formation and lowering
the risk of clot-related complications in atherosclerosis. Managing dyslipidemia involves drugs
like ezetimibe, targeting cholesterol absorption in the intestines and reducing LDL cholesterol levels.
However, administering these drugs mandates careful consideration of patient-specific factors, potential
side effects, and contraindications. Integrating lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular
exercise remains integral to CVD management. The potential of enzyme inhibition in disrupting
disease pathways and addressing key factors in CVD progression is evident. Yet, it necessitates ongoing
research for refining existing therapies and developing novel inhibitors to augment cardiovascular
outcomes and elevate patients' quality of life.