Rolofylline

Rolofylline is a diuretic that was under development for the treatment of acute heart failure and associated renal dysfunction. It is a selective adenosine A1 receptor antagonist. Rolofylline was being developed by NovaCardia until 2007, when the company was acquired by Merck & Co.. In 2010, clinical trials were discontinued after it was found the drug did not significantly improve symptoms compared to a placebo.

History

Rolofylline was initially developed by NovaCardia, a pharmaceutical company specializing in cardiovascular diseases. In 2007, NovaCardia was acquired by Merck & Co., a multinational pharmaceutical company. The acquisition was part of Merck's strategy to strengthen its portfolio of cardiovascular drugs.

Mechanism of Action

Rolofylline is a selective adenosine A1 receptor antagonist. Adenosine A1 receptors are found in the heart and kidneys, among other places. By blocking these receptors, rolofylline is thought to increase urine production and decrease fluid buildup in the body, which can help alleviate symptoms of acute heart failure.

Clinical Trials

In 2010, Merck announced that it had discontinued clinical trials of rolofylline. The decision was based on the results of a Phase III clinical trial, which found that rolofylline did not significantly improve symptoms or clinical outcomes compared to a placebo in patients with acute heart failure and renal dysfunction.

See Also

• Diuretic
• Acute heart failure
• Renal dysfunction
• Adenosine A1 receptor
• NovaCardia
• Merck & Co.

• Rolofylline
  Rolofylline