Unexpected effect of proton pump inhibitors: elevation of the cardiovascular risk factor asymmetric dimethylarginine.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are gastric acid-suppressing agents widely prescribed for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Recently, several studies in patients with acute coronary syndrome have raised the concern that use of PPIs in these patients may increase their risk of major adverse cardiovascular events. The mechanism of this possible adverse effect is not known. Whether the general population might also be at risk has not been addressed.

Methods and results

Plasma asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA) is an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase. Elevated plasma ADMA is associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease, likely because of its attenuation of the vasoprotective effects of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. We find

SUBMITTER: Ghebremariam YT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3838201 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature