Methods for in vivo reduction of nitric oxide levels and compositions useful therefor
US5756540A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 2, 1995 |
| Grant date | May 26, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 2, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61K31/295
- WIPO fieldPharmaceuticals
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
In accordance with the present invention, there are provided methods for the in vivo reduction of nitric oxide levels in a mammalian subject. In contrast to the inhibitory approach described in the prior art (i.e., wherein the function of the enzymes responsible for nitric oxide production is inhibited), the present invention employs a scavenging approach whereby overproduced nitric oxide is bound in vivo to a suitable nitric oxide scavenger. The resulting complex renders the nitric oxide harmless, and is eventually excreted in the urine of the host. Further in accordance with the present invention, there are provided compositions and formulations useful for carrying out the above-described methods. An exemplary nitric oxide scavenger contemplated for use in the practice of the present invention is a dithiocarbamate-ferrous iron complex. The present invention relates to methods for reducing in vivo levels of .multidot.NO as a means of treating subjects afflicted with inflammatory and/or infectious disease. Dithiocarbamate-containing nitric oxide scavengers are administered to a host in need of such treatment; these scavengers interact with in vivo produced .multidot.NO, forming a s…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.