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Search Results (711)

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Keywords = anti-hypertensive drug

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11 pages, 452 KB  
Article
Evolution of Hemodynamic Parameters After Tooth Extraction and Infiltration of Local Anesthetic with Vasoconstrictor in Healthy and Hypertensive Patients Controlled with Different Antihypertensive Drugs
by Francisco Javier Silvestre, Cecilia Fabiana Márquez-Arrico, Javier Silvestre-Rangil and Belén García-López
Oral 2026, 6(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/oral6010015 - 2 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background: The progressive aging of the population has led to an increased prevalence of chronic diseases and polypharmacy, with arterial hypertension representing one of the most frequent conditions. Consequently, the management of vital signs during dental interventions, such as tooth extractions, has [...] Read more.
Background: The progressive aging of the population has led to an increased prevalence of chronic diseases and polypharmacy, with arterial hypertension representing one of the most frequent conditions. Consequently, the management of vital signs during dental interventions, such as tooth extractions, has acquired particular clinical relevance. The present study aimed to analyze the hemodynamic impact of vasoconstrictors (VAs) used in local anesthesia (LA) at different procedural stages in patients with pharmacologically controlled hypertension, as well as to compare these effects with those observed in normotensive individuals. Additionally, the study evaluated the influence of antihypertensive medication on hemodynamic responses during dental extraction. Methods: A case–control study was conducted at Dr. Peset University Hospital (Valencia, Spain), including 254 patients—148 hypertensive (controlled with type 1 and 2 antihypertensive therapy) and 106 normotensive controls. Hemodynamic parameters—systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), heart rate (HR), and oxygen saturation (SO2)—were recorded at four time points: baseline (T1), five minutes post anesthesia with 4% articaine and epinephrine (T2), upon completion of extraction (T3), and one week postoperatively (T4). Results: The SBP remained more stable in normotensive patients, while both groups exhibited a slight DBP decrease at T2, with recovery by T3. In hypertensive patients treated with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), DBP decreased further. Tooth extraction under controlled hypertension conditions caused a mild, clinically insignificant increase in HR. Conclusions: Significant fluctuations in SBP, DBP, and SO2 occurred during dental extraction, underscoring the necessity for vigilant intraoperative monitoring and individualized management of hypertensive patients. Full article
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9 pages, 339 KB  
Article
ACE Inhibitor/ARB Therapy and Other Risk Factors for COVID-19 Infection in Elderly Hypertensive Patients: Sub-Group Analysis Based on a Single-Center, Retrospective, Observational Study in Japan
by Kazuhiro Furumachi, Akari Higuchi, Tatsuki Kagatsume, Mariko Kozaru, Tsutomu Nakamura, Etsuko Kumagai and Keiko Hosohata
Pharmacy 2026, 14(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy14010022 - 2 Feb 2026
Abstract
Background: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are often used in hypertensive patients. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, binds the ACE2 receptor on the cell surface. This [...] Read more.
Background: Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are often used in hypertensive patients. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus responsible for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, binds the ACE2 receptor on the cell surface. This study aimed to identify the risk factors influencing COVID-19 infection in hypertensive patients. Methods: This is a part of a single-center, retrospective, observational study investigating patients ≥ 20 years old at Kenwakai Hospital (Nagano, Japan). COVID-19 was diagnosed by polymerase chain reaction. All patients received antihypertensive drugs. Results: Among 316 patients (mean age, 75.0 ± 13.4 years; men, 55.1%), COVID-19 was diagnosed in 39 (12.3%). Multiple logistic regression analysis after adjustment for age, sex, and smoking status identified increased serum creatinine (Scr) as a significant risk factor for COVID-19 (odds ratio [OR] 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.20; p = 0.046). Conversely, lower serum chloride was associated with COVID-19 (OR 0.92; 95% CI 0.85–0.99; p = 0.047). There was no significant association between COVID-19 and the use of ACEIs and ARBs. Conclusions: Scr was independently associated with COVID-19 risk, whereas ACEI/ARB use was not associated with COVID-19 risk in Japanese hypertensive patients, suggesting that these users need not discontinue or change their treatment. The study population included a very high proportion of patients with advanced chronic kidney disease, which makes the cohort substantially different from the general hypertensive population. However, our results can help guide targeted treatment strategies, improving patient outcomes in healthcare settings. Full article
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9 pages, 246 KB  
Article
Pharmacovigilance from the Patient’s Perspective: Self-Reported Adverse Drug Reactions in Kosovo’s Elderly Population
by Fitim Alidema and Arieta Hasani Alidema
Pharmacoepidemiology 2026, 5(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharma5010006 - 30 Jan 2026
Viewed by 103
Abstract
Background: Pharmacovigilance is a critical component of patient safety, particularly among older adults with chronic diseases who are frequently exposed to polypharmacy. In Kosovo, adverse drug reactions (ADRs) reported by patients remain insufficiently recognized within the healthcare system. Polypharmacy, limited access to pharmaceutical [...] Read more.
Background: Pharmacovigilance is a critical component of patient safety, particularly among older adults with chronic diseases who are frequently exposed to polypharmacy. In Kosovo, adverse drug reactions (ADRs) reported by patients remain insufficiently recognized within the healthcare system. Polypharmacy, limited access to pharmaceutical counseling, and self-medication practices may contribute to increased medication-related harm. Capturing ADRs directly from patients provides valuable insight into medication safety challenges and communication gaps in clinical care. Objective: To assess the frequency, characteristics, and reporting behavior of adverse drug reactions among adults aged 60–75 years with chronic diseases in Kosovo, and to identify factors associated with awareness and reporting practices. Methods: A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted between January and September 2025 in four major cities in Kosovo (Prishtina, Prizren, Peja, and Gjilan). A total of 1024 patients receiving continuous therapy for at least one chronic condition were surveyed using a structured questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, drug exposure, ADR experience, and reporting behavior. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square testing, and multivariable logistic regression to identify predictors of ADR reporting. Results: Overall, 47.3% of participants reported experiencing at least one ADR in the preceding 12 months. Among those, 39.5% reported the event to a healthcare professional, whereas 60.5% did not seek professional advice. The most frequently implicated drug classes were antihypertensives (32.8%), analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (27.4%), and antirheumatic agents (14.6%), with mainly gastrointestinal (24.1%) and cardiovascular (18.9%) manifestations. Approximately 19.8% of participants reported discontinuing medication due to adverse effects. Female patients were more likely to report ADRs compared to males (p < 0.01). Lack of prior counseling about potential side effects was independently associated with lower reporting (OR = 2.17; 95% CI: 1.41–3.33). Patients using more than six medications had a higher prevalence of ADRs (61.2%). Conclusion: Adverse drug reactions were frequently reported by older patients, while formal reporting to healthcare professionals remained limited. Strengthening patient education, improving patient–provider communication, and integrating clinical pharmacists into primary care may enhance pharmacovigilance practices and medication safety. Full article
14 pages, 910 KB  
Article
Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Cardiometabolic Outcomes in Older Australian Adults—Results from the Randomized Controlled D-Health Trial
by Briony L. Duarte Romero, Bruce K. Armstrong, Catherine Baxter, Dallas R. English, Peter R. Ebeling, Gunter Hartel, Michael G. Kimlin, Renhua Na, Donald S. A. McLeod, Hai Pham, Tanya Ross, Jolieke C. van der Pols, Alison J. Venn, Penelope M. Webb, David C. Whiteman, Rachel E. Neale and Mary Waterhouse
Nutrients 2026, 18(2), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020357 - 22 Jan 2026
Viewed by 227
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Observational studies have found inverse associations between 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration and risk of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and type 2 diabetes (T2D). More robust evidence from large-scale randomized controlled trials, however, is limited or inconclusive. Methods: The D-Health Trial (N = 21,315) [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Observational studies have found inverse associations between 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration and risk of hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and type 2 diabetes (T2D). More robust evidence from large-scale randomized controlled trials, however, is limited or inconclusive. Methods: The D-Health Trial (N = 21,315) is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of supplementation with monthly doses of 60,000 international units of oral vitamin D3, conducted in Australians aged 60–84 years. Commencing treatment with anti-hypertensive, lipid-modifying, or anti-diabetic drugs was used as a surrogate for incident hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and T2D, respectively. Outcomes were ascertained via linkage with the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme database. Follow-up began 6 months after randomization; we excluded participants without linked data, and those who were prevalent cases or who died prior to start of follow-up. Flexible parametric survival models were used to estimate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on each outcome. Results: We included 10,964 participants (vitamin D, n = 5456 [49.8%]; placebo, n = 5508 [50.2%]) in the analysis of hypertension, 12,126 participants (vitamin D, n = 6038 [49.8%]; placebo, n = 6088 [50.2%]) in the analysis of hypercholesterolemia, and 17,846 (vitamin D, n = 8931 [50.0%]; placebo, n = 8915 [50.0%]) in the analysis of T2D. Over a median follow-up of 4.6 years, 2672 (24.4%), 2554 (21.1%), and 779 (4.4%) participants developed hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and T2D, respectively. Vitamin D supplementation had no material effect on the incidence of any of hypertension (HR 1.00; 95% CI 0.93 to 1.08), hypercholesterolemia (HR 1.05; 95% CI 0.97 to 1.13), or T2D (HR 0.97; 95% CI 0.84 to 1.12). Conclusions: Monthly supplements of vitamin D did not alter the incidence of any of the three conditions in older, largely vitamin D-replete Australians. Full article
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11 pages, 1026 KB  
Article
Effects of N3SA Analogues on Cerebral and Peripheral Arteriolar Vasomotion in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
by Dominga Lapi, Giuseppe Federighi, Maria Paola Tramonti Fantozzi, Gianpiero Garau and Rossana Scuri
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 1006; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27021006 - 20 Jan 2026
Viewed by 109
Abstract
Thiazides are among the most efficacious and commonly used drugs for the treatment of hypertension. The nanomolar stabilizer N3SA binds specifically to the recently discovered thiazide-binding site of the membrane target NAPE-PLD, showing sustained arterial blood pressure-lowering effects and vasodilation in spontaneous hypertensive [...] Read more.
Thiazides are among the most efficacious and commonly used drugs for the treatment of hypertension. The nanomolar stabilizer N3SA binds specifically to the recently discovered thiazide-binding site of the membrane target NAPE-PLD, showing sustained arterial blood pressure-lowering effects and vasodilation in spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHRs). To further support the relation between stabilizers anchored to NAPE-PLD and their beneficial effects on hypertension, we selected compound analogues of N3SA with chemical modifications at the three target-interacting sulfonic groups, including the drug Suramin. Each compound was injected i.v in an adult SHR (systolic blood pressure of 217 ± 5 mmHg) to evaluate the frequency components contribution to cerebral and peripheral arteriolar vasomotion. We visualized the pial and rectus femoral muscle microcirculation by Epi-illumination, measuring changes in the rhythmic arteriolar diameter. Findings showed that the minor structural differences in compounds correlated with the contribution of the six different frequency components affecting the arterial tone, as well as their vasodilatory effects, in both cerebral and femoral muscle arterioles. These results provide evidence that the spectra analysis of the regulation mechanisms of vascular tone and arterial blood pressure can accurately reflect the structure–activity correlations of different analogues of an antihypertensive compound. Full article
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26 pages, 823 KB  
Review
Underlying Mechanisms of Osteoporosis in the Context of Multimorbidity: Clinical Challenges and Management Strategies
by Alberto Castagna, Carmelo Pujia, Elisa Mazza, Samantha Maurotti, Yvelise Ferro, Valeria Rizzo, Martina Formica, Rosy Conforto, Caterina Mercuri, Angela Sciacqua, Carmine Gazzaruso, Arturo Pujia and Tiziana Montalcini
Nutrients 2026, 18(2), 262; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020262 - 14 Jan 2026
Viewed by 418
Abstract
Osteoporosis and chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease share several common biological mechanisms, including chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, hormonal dysregulation, and metabolic alterations. In this context, multimorbidity presents an increasing clinical challenge, particularly [...] Read more.
Osteoporosis and chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease share several common biological mechanisms, including chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, hormonal dysregulation, and metabolic alterations. In this context, multimorbidity presents an increasing clinical challenge, particularly in older populations, where osteoporosis remains frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. This review aims to explore the complex interplay between skeletal fragility and cardiometabolic diseases, emphasizing the role of nutritional deficiencies (such as iron and vitamin C), shared molecular pathways (advanced glycation end-products, Renin–Angiotensin–Aldosterone System, RANK Ligand, RANK), and the systemic impact of chronic inflammation and tissue hypoperfusion. The review also addresses the effects of various drug classes—antidiabetics, antihypertensives, anticoagulants, and anti-osteoporotic agents—on bone metabolism and cardiovascular risk. Special focus is given to the implementation of integrated and personalized care models, particularly multidisciplinary team-based approaches, which have demonstrated significant reductions in mortality and refracture rates, despite their still limited adoption in clinical practice. In conclusion, this review highlights the shared mechanisms between osteoporosis and cardiometabolic conditions in the context of multimorbidity, underscoring persistent clinical challenges related to diagnosis, drug interactions, and care fragmentation that warrant further research into integrated care models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Metabolism)
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17 pages, 2128 KB  
Article
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors and Statins Mitigate Negative Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Effects of Particulate Matter in a Mouse Exposure Model
by Tristan Junglas, Andreas Daiber, Ivana Kuntic, Arijan Valar, Jiayin Zheng, Matthias Oelze, Lea Strohm, Henning Ubbens, Omar Hahad, Maria Teresa Bayo Jimenez, Thomas Münzel and Marin Kuntic
Antioxidants 2026, 15(1), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15010106 - 13 Jan 2026
Viewed by 445
Abstract
Particulate matter (PM) is a significant contributor to air pollution-associated negative health effects, and cardiovascular disease patients are more susceptible to air pollution-mediated damage of the heart and vessels. The present study investigated the protective effects against PM-induced cardiovascular damage by classic cardiovascular [...] Read more.
Particulate matter (PM) is a significant contributor to air pollution-associated negative health effects, and cardiovascular disease patients are more susceptible to air pollution-mediated damage of the heart and vessels. The present study investigated the protective effects against PM-induced cardiovascular damage by classic cardiovascular drugs, as used for the standard therapy of cardiovascular disease patients. Male C57BL/6J mice were exposed to ambient PM2.5 (<2.5 µm) for 3 days with or without treatment with the cholesterol-lowering drug atorvastatin (20 mg/kg/d) or the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor captopril (50 mg/kg/d). Both drugs mitigated PM2.5-induced systolic blood pressure increases and partially prevented endothelial dysfunction, as reflected by a mixed effect on endothelial nitric oxide synthase phosphorylation. Both drugs ameliorated reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and phagocytic nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase (NOX-2) expression in the vasculature of PM2.5-exposed mice. Pulmonary ROS levels showed a minor improvement by the treatments, whereas Nox2 mRNA expression was not diminished. Only captopril showed some anti-inflammatory effects in the heart and lung of PM2.5-exposed mice, whereas both drugs failed to reduce systemic inflammation measured in plasma. These findings offer new insights into potential mitigation strategies for PM2.5-induced cardiovascular complications, particularly for patients at higher cardiovascular risk, like those with coronary artery or ischemic heart disease or hypertension. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oxidative Stress Induced by Air Pollution, 3rd Edition)
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25 pages, 2682 KB  
Article
Cohort Profile: A Descriptive Analysis of Patients Aged 75 Years and Older with Public Health Coverage in Madrid at Baseline, Including a 5-Year Preobservational Period (2015–2019)
by Victor Iriarte-Campo, Pilar Vich-Perez, José M. Mostaza, Carlos Lahoz, Juan Cárdenas-Valladolid, Paloma Gómez-Campelo, Belén Taulero-Escalera, F. Javier San-Andrés-Rebollo, Fernando Rodriguez-Artalejo, Enrique Carrillo-de Santa Pau, Lucía Carrasco and Miguel Angel Salinero-Fort
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020571 - 10 Jan 2026
Viewed by 257
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Population aging increases the healthcare burden of chronic diseases. We aimed to characterize the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of Aged Madrid, a cohort comprising 98.6% of the population aged 75 years and older in Madrid, Spain. Methods: Observational study with [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Population aging increases the healthcare burden of chronic diseases. We aimed to characterize the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of Aged Madrid, a cohort comprising 98.6% of the population aged 75 years and older in Madrid, Spain. Methods: Observational study with a five-year retrospective baseline period (2015–2019) to assess baseline vascular and metabolic risk. Data were taken from primary care electronic medical records, hospital discharge summaries, and pharmacy records. Results: 587,603 individuals (mean age: 84 years ± 5.8 years, 61.3% women) were analysed. Obesity affected 31.3% (more frequent in women), while type 2 diabetes occurred in 23.8% (predominantly in men). Hypertension (52.8%), dyslipidaemia (61.6%), and chronic kidney disease (21.7%) were more frequent in women. Atrial fibrillation was the leading cardiovascular condition in women (15.1%), while acute myocardial infarction predominated in men (8.2%). The most prescribed drug classes were antihypertensives (53.8%), statins (44.2%), and oral antidiabetics (26.4%). Among antihypertensives, diuretics (53.9%), ACE inhibitors (27.4%), and ARBs (25.3%) were most used, often in combinations such as diuretics + ACE inhibitors (30.1%). Diabetes treatments favoured metformin and DPP-4 inhibitors; 5.2% received insulin. Conclusions: Sex-based differences emerged in biochemical, anthropometric, and lifestyle variables. Men showed a higher prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and several cardiometabolic risk factors, while women used fewer lipid-lowering and antidiabetic agents. Diuretics were the predominant antihypertensives, and antidiabetic therapy largely followed guideline recommendations. Although 60% of statin users had no prior cardiovascular disease, and their use was concentrated mainly among individuals with major cardiometabolic risk conditions and declined with advancing age, suggesting an age- and risk-sensitive prescribing pattern rather than indiscriminate use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Epidemiology & Public Health)
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17 pages, 1186 KB  
Article
Changes in Insulin Resistance with Different Weight Loss Methods in Patients with Type Two Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension: A Comparative Clinical Trial
by Kuat Oshakbayev, Aigul Durmanova, Gani Kuttymuratov, Nurzhan Bikhanov, Altay Nabiyev, Timur Suleimenov, Alisher Idrissov, Tomiris Shakhmarova, Zhanel Mirmanova, Saule Rakhimova, Ulan Kozhamkulov and Ainur Akilzhanova
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020546 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 478
Abstract
Background: The comparative effects of pharmacological treatment, bariatric surgery, and diet on insulin resistance (IR) remain unclear. Aim: To study the comparative effects of the methods on IR: pharmacologic, bariatric surgery, and very-low-calorie diet (VLCD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) [...] Read more.
Background: The comparative effects of pharmacological treatment, bariatric surgery, and diet on insulin resistance (IR) remain unclear. Aim: To study the comparative effects of the methods on IR: pharmacologic, bariatric surgery, and very-low-calorie diet (VLCD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension. Methods: Design: a 90-day prospective, multicenter, comparative clinical trial including 130 adult patients divided into three groups: Drug, Surgery, and VLCD. Endpoints: HOMA-IR; weight loss; and HbA1c, systolic/diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP). Results: At 90 days, weight loss in the Surgery (−19.8%) and VLCD groups (−17.4%) was significant (p < 0.0001), while in the Drug group, the loss was insignificant (−6.5%; p = 0.06). SBP/DBP in the Drug group decreased by −9.5% (p = 0.0002) and −4.1% (p = 0.09), respectively. SBP/DBP in the Surgery group decreased by −13.6% and −10.6%, respectively (p < 0.001), and in the VLCD group, by −23.3% and 21.3%, respectively (p < 0.0001). HOMA-IR in Drug, Surgery, and VLCD groups decreased by −42.2% (p = 0.004), −87.6% (p < 0.0001), and −88.7% (p < 0.0001), respectively. In the Drug group, HOMA-IR did not reach the normal level. Correlation-regression analysis revealed a direct correlation between weight loss and a decrease in HOMA-IR (r = 0.526; F = 33.2, p < 0.0001). HOMA-IR decreases by 65% if weight decreases by 10%; if weight decreases by 25%, then HOMA-IR decreases by 83%. Conclusions: HOMA-IR was associated with weight loss: the greater the weight loss, the lower the HOMA-IR. Weight loss leads to a reduction in the need for antidiabetic/antihypertensive drugs in patients with T2DM and hypertension. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology & Metabolism)
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24 pages, 4587 KB  
Article
A Comprehensive Physicochemical Analysis Focusing on the Characterization and Stability of Valsartan Silver Nano-Conjugates
by Abdul Qadir, Khwaja Suleman Hasan, Khair Bux, Khwaja Ali Hasan, Aamir Jalil, Asad Khan Tanoli, Khwaja Akbar Hasan, Shahida Naz, Muhammad Kashif, Nuzhat Fatima Zaidi, Ayesha Khan, Zeeshan Vohra, Herwig Ralf and Shama Qaiser
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020582 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 543
Abstract
Valsartan (Val)—a lipophilic non-peptide angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist—is highly effective against hypertension and displaying limited solubility in water (3.08 μg/mL), thereby resulting in low oral bioavailability (23%). The limited water solubility of antihypertensive drugs can pose a challenge, particularly for rapid [...] Read more.
Valsartan (Val)—a lipophilic non-peptide angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist—is highly effective against hypertension and displaying limited solubility in water (3.08 μg/mL), thereby resulting in low oral bioavailability (23%). The limited water solubility of antihypertensive drugs can pose a challenge, particularly for rapid and precise administration. Herein, we synthesize and characterize valsartan-containing silver nanoparticles (Val-AgNPs) using Mangifera indica leaf extracts. The physicochemical, structural, thermal, and pharmacological properties of these nano-conjugates were established through various analytical and structural tools. The spectral shifts in both UV-visible and FTIR analyses indicate a successful interaction between the valsartan molecule and the silver nanoparticles. The resulting nano-conjugates are spherical and within the size range of 30–60 nm as revealed in scanning electron-EDS and atomic force micrographs. The log-normal distribution of valsartan-loaded nanoparticles, with a size range of 30 to 60 nm and a mode of 54 nm, indicates a narrow, monodisperse, and highly uniform particle size distribution. This is a favorable characteristic for drug delivery systems, as it leads to enhanced bioavailability and a consistent performance. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) analysis of the Val-AgNPs indicates a polydisperse sample with a tendency toward aggregation, resulting in larger effective sizes in the suspension compared to individual nanoparticles. The accompanying decrease in zeta potential (to −19.5 mV) and conductivity further supports the idea that the surface chemistry and stability of the nanoparticles changed after conjugation. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) demonstrated the melting onset of the valsartan component at 113.99 °C. The size-dependent densification of the silver nanoparticles at 286.24 °C correspond to a size range of 40–60 nm, showing a significant melting point depression compared to bulk silver due to nanoscale effects. The shift in Rf for pure valsartan to Val-AgNPs suggests that the interaction with the AgNPs alters the compound’s overall polarity and/or its interaction with the stationary phase, complimented in HPTLC and HPLC analysis. The stability and offloading behavior of Val-AgNPs was observed at pH 6–10 and in 40% and 80% MeOH. In addition, Val-AgNPs did not reveal hemolysis or significant alterations in blood cell indices, confirming the safety of the nano-conjugates for biological application. In conclusion, these findings provide a comprehensive characterization of Val-AgNPs, highlighting their potential for improved drug delivery applications. Full article
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28 pages, 2173 KB  
Article
The Relationship Between Bone Health Status of Post-Menopausal Women with Non-Functional Adrenal Tumours/Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion and Their Baseline Morning Adrenocorticotropic Level
by Alexandra-Ioana Trandafir, Oana-Claudia Sima, Nina Ionovici, Dana Manda, Mihai Costachescu and Mara Carsote
Diagnostics 2026, 16(2), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16020180 - 6 Jan 2026
Viewed by 355
Abstract
Background. Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis represents a well-known type of secondary osteoporosis (SOp). While the most prevalent sub-category includes corticotherapy, another important contributor is represented by Cushing’s syndrome. In this traditional landscape, adrenal incidentalomas do not involve a standard cause of SOp, since most [...] Read more.
Background. Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis represents a well-known type of secondary osteoporosis (SOp). While the most prevalent sub-category includes corticotherapy, another important contributor is represented by Cushing’s syndrome. In this traditional landscape, adrenal incidentalomas do not involve a standard cause of SOp, since most of them are non-functioning adrenal tumours (NFATs). Yet, 30–40% of them are not entirely “non-functioning”, due to mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS). Despite not being a guideline-based diagnosis, a lower ACTH might point to various NFATs/MACS complications. Objective. This study aimed to determine the relationship between the bone health status of post-menopausal women with NFATs/MACS and their baseline morning ACTH level. The bone health indicators were DXA, FRAX, and bone remodelling markers. Methods. This was a retrospective, real-life, transversal study in adult females who were hospitalized in a single tertiary centre of endocrinology. They were all anti-osteoporotic drug-naïve. The subjects underwent CT and DXA scanning and a 1 mg dexamethasone suppression test (DST). Results. The cohort (sample size of N = 84 patients, 61.49 ± 7.86 years) had a type 2 diabetes rate of 18%, arterial hypertension rate of 75%, and a dyslipidemia rate of 78%. Median ACTH was 11.89 pg/mL. The prevalence of MACS was 30.95%. The mean largest tumour diameter (LTD) was 2.25 ± 0.99 cm. ACTH correlated with second-day cortisol after the 1 mg DST (r = −0.301, p = 0.024), and LTD (r = −0.434, p < 0.001). ROC analysis for the bone resorption marker CrossLaps showed an AUC of 0.647 (p = 0.05), with the highest Youden index for the cut-off at 0.32 ng/mL (sensitivity 87.50%, specificity 39.50%). Bone impairment (osteoporosis + osteopenia) was found in 65% of patients, with an osteoporotic fracture prevalence of 4.76%. The lowest mean T-score (−1.12 ± 1.00) showed osteopenia, and the median trabecular bone score pointed a partially degraded microarchitecture [median (interquartile interval): 1.320 (1.230, 1.392)]. FRAX and FRAXplus estimations correlated with bone mineral density (BMD) at all three central DXA sites, regardless of the ACTH cut-off. Patients with a low ACTH (<10 pg/mL) displayed similar bone/adrenal features when compared to those with normal ACTH, except forbut they had a higher MACS rate (45.45% versus 21.57%, p = 0.021) and a larger LTD (2.67 ± 0.98 versus 1.98 ± 0.92 cm, p = 0.003). Fracture estimation showed that only in patients with a low ACTH, the 10-year fracture risk for major osteoporotic fractures (MOF) adjusted for lumbar BMD was lower than the risk for MOF adjusted for diabetes (p = 0.036), and the 10-year hip fracture risk was lower when adjusted for lumbar BMD (p = 0.007). ACTH correlated with lumbar BMD (r = 0.591, p = 0.002) only in the group with an ACTH < 10 pg/mL, suggesting its potential usefulness as a bone biomarker in these cases. On the other hand, MACS-negative subjects with a low ACTH versus those with a normal ACTH showed higher CrossLaps (0.60 ± 0.27 versus 0.42 ± 0.21 ng/mL, p = 0.022), indicating an elevated bone resorption even in patients with tumours that are regarded as true non-secretors. Conclusions. A subgroup of patients diagnosed with NFATs/MACS might be prone to skeletal damage, and biomarkers such as ACTH (specifically, suppressed ACTH) might serve as a surrogate pointer to help refine this higher risk in daily practice. Further research to address other ACTH cut-offs will place ACTH assays in the overall bone status evaluation in these patients, most probably not as a single biomarker, but in addition to other assays. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Diagnosis and Management of Metabolic Bone Diseases)
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24 pages, 935 KB  
Review
A Narrative Review on Nitrate-Rich Diets as Adjuncts to Antihypertensive Therapy: Enhancing Treatment Efficacy via Oxidative Stress Modulation
by Mila Silva-Cunha, Carla Speroni Ceron, Heitor Moreno and José Eduardo Tanus-Santos
Biomedicines 2026, 14(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14010039 - 23 Dec 2025
Viewed by 552
Abstract
Arterial hypertension (AH) is a highly prevalent, multifactorial cardiovascular condition characterized by endothelial dysfunction, increased oxidative stress, and impaired nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. While pharmacological treatment is primarily directed toward blood pressure reduction, accumulating evidence indicates that several antihypertensive drug classes also confer [...] Read more.
Arterial hypertension (AH) is a highly prevalent, multifactorial cardiovascular condition characterized by endothelial dysfunction, increased oxidative stress, and impaired nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. While pharmacological treatment is primarily directed toward blood pressure reduction, accumulating evidence indicates that several antihypertensive drug classes also confer antioxidant and vasculoprotective benefits. Concurrently, dietary intake of inorganic nitrate and nitrite has gained attention as an adjunctive approach to restore NO signaling and redox homeostasis. This narrative review summarizes current evidence regarding the antioxidant effects of major antihypertensive drug classes and examines the contribution of nitrate- and nitrite-rich diets to the modulation of oxidative stress and vascular dysfunction in AH. A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) databases was performed for studies published between August and December 2025. Experimental and clinical investigations assessing oxidative stress markers, endothelial function, or NO-related outcomes in AH were selected following title and abstract screening and full-text evaluation. Available data indicate that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, diuretics, β-blockers, and calcium channel blockers mitigate oxidative stress via mechanisms including NADPH oxidase suppression, decreased reactive oxygen species production, reinforcement of endogenous antioxidant systems, and restoration of endothelial NO bioavailability. Moreover, dietary nitrate and nitrite support vascular function through activation of the nitrate–nitrite–NO pathway. Combining nitrate- and antioxidant-rich dietary strategies with antihypertensive agents that lack inherent redox-modulating activity may enhance blood pressure control and lower cardiovascular risk. Nevertheless, well-designed long-term randomized clinical trials are needed to elucidate class-specific interactions and underlying redox mechanisms. Full article
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23 pages, 3772 KB  
Review
Benzimidazole Derivatives: A Review of Advances in Synthesis, Biological Potential, Computational Modelling, and Specialized Material Functions
by Nuaman F. Alheety, Sameer A. Awad, Mustafa A. Alheety, Mohanned Y. Darwesh, Jalal A. Abbas and Rafaâ Besbes
Chemistry 2026, 8(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemistry8010001 - 19 Dec 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 882
Abstract
Benzimidazole derivatives are a privileged family of heterocyclic compounds that have remarkable structural diversity and find various pharmacological and industrial applications. In this article, we report on their synthetic procedures, ranging from classic condensation methodologies to modern green chemistry methodologies (microwave-assisted methods and [...] Read more.
Benzimidazole derivatives are a privileged family of heterocyclic compounds that have remarkable structural diversity and find various pharmacological and industrial applications. In this article, we report on their synthetic procedures, ranging from classic condensation methodologies to modern green chemistry methodologies (microwave-assisted methods and catalyst-free methods). The biological significance of these derivatives is discussed, and their anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiparasitic, antiviral, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and neuroprotective activities are reported. This article also reviews recent industrial applications, with special reference to hydrogen storage and environmental sustainability. The latest computational techniques, such as density functional theory (DFT), molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation, are particularly emphasized because they can be instrumental in understanding structure–activity relationships and rational drug design. In summary, the present review describes the importance of new benzimidazole derivatives, which are considered a different class of multitarget agents in medicinal chemistry and computational drug design. Full article
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17 pages, 887 KB  
Article
Drug-Induced Intestinal Angioedema: A Disproportionality Analysis Using the United States Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System Database and Literature Review
by Poovizhi Bharathi Rajaduraivelpandian, Rashmi R. Rao and Ashwin Kamath
Med. Sci. 2025, 13(4), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci13040327 - 18 Dec 2025
Viewed by 676
Abstract
Background: Intestinal angioedema is an important drug-induced adverse effect that is often misdiagnosed due to vague and nonspecific symptoms. This study aimed to identify drugs with potential to cause intestinal angioedema by performing a disproportionality analysis, supplemented with literature review. Methods: Using OpenVigil, [...] Read more.
Background: Intestinal angioedema is an important drug-induced adverse effect that is often misdiagnosed due to vague and nonspecific symptoms. This study aimed to identify drugs with potential to cause intestinal angioedema by performing a disproportionality analysis, supplemented with literature review. Methods: Using OpenVigil, we extracted relevant individual case safety reports from the United States Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database. Drugs with signal of disproportionate reporting (SDR) of intestinal angioedema were identified. A literature review was performed using PubMed and Embase databases to identify potential suspect drugs. Results: During 2004–2024, 303 cases of intestinal angioedema were reported to FAERS. Fourteen suspect medications showed SDR; of these, seven drugs were also reported in the literature to have caused intestinal angioedema, including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, losartan, and acetylsalicyclic acid. A literature search identified 89 relevant articles, providing details of 121 cases. Some drugs linked to intestinal angioedema in the literature did not show SDR. Conclusions: Disproportionality analysis as well as a literature review showed that most patients were middle-aged females on antihypertensive therapy. The results will assist health professionals in determining the temporal association of acute abdomen with the suspected drug, potentially avoiding unnecessary interventions and their attendant complications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Translational Medicine)
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25 pages, 3479 KB  
Review
Antidiabetic Agents as Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Therapies in Neurological and Cardiovascular Diseases
by Snehal Raut and Luca Cucullo
Antioxidants 2025, 14(12), 1490; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14121490 - 12 Dec 2025
Viewed by 1799
Abstract
Neurological disorders and cardiovascular disease (CVD) remain leading causes of global morbidity and mortality and often coexist, in part through shared mechanisms of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Neuroinflammatory signaling, including microglial activation, cytokine release, and impaired autonomic regulation, contributes to endothelial dysfunction, [...] Read more.
Neurological disorders and cardiovascular disease (CVD) remain leading causes of global morbidity and mortality and often coexist, in part through shared mechanisms of chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Neuroinflammatory signaling, including microglial activation, cytokine release, and impaired autonomic regulation, contributes to endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, hypertension, and stroke, while cardiac and metabolic disturbances can reciprocally exacerbate brain pathology. Increasing evidence shows that several antidiabetic agents exert pleiotropic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that extend beyond glycemic control. Metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors, DPP-4 inhibitors, and GLP-1 receptor agonists modulate key pathways such as AMPK, NF-κB, Nrf2 activation, and NLRP3 inflammasome suppression, with demonstrated vascular and neuroprotective actions in preclinical models. Clinically, GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors reduce major cardiovascular events, improve systemic inflammatory markers, and show emerging signals for cognitive benefit, while metformin and DPP-4 inhibitors exhibit supportive but less robust evidence. This review synthesizes molecular, preclinical, and clinical data across drug classes, with particular emphasis on GLP-1 receptor agonists, and highlights outstanding translational questions including blood–brain barrier penetration, biomarker development, optimal patient selection, and timing of intervention. We propose a unified framework to guide future trials aimed at leveraging antidiabetic therapies such as DDP-4 anti-inflammatory and antioxidant interventions for neurological and cardiovascular diseases. Full article
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