Aldose reductase inhibitor
Aldose Reductase Inhibitor
Aldose reductase inhibitors (ARI) are a class of drugs used primarily in the management of complications of diabetes mellitus. Pronounced as "al-dose re-duktase in-hi-bit-ors", the term is derived from the words 'aldose', a type of sugar; 'reductase', an enzyme that aids in the reduction process; and 'inhibitor', which refers to substances that decrease the activity of enzymes.
Function
Aldose reductase inhibitors function by blocking the action of the enzyme aldose reductase. This enzyme is responsible for converting glucose into a sugar alcohol called sorbitol. In individuals with diabetes, excessive glucose can lead to an overproduction of sorbitol, which can cause damage to cells, particularly in the eyes, nerves, and kidneys.
Types
There are several types of aldose reductase inhibitors, including Epalrestat, Ranirestat, and Fidarestat. These drugs differ in their chemical structure and potency, but all work to inhibit the action of aldose reductase and reduce the production of sorbitol.
Side Effects
Like all medications, aldose reductase inhibitors can cause side effects. These may include nausea, dizziness, and headache. It is important to discuss these potential side effects with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Research
Research into aldose reductase inhibitors is ongoing, with scientists exploring their potential use in other conditions, such as cancer and inflammatory diseases.
See Also
References
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