Acetoxolone

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Acetoxolone

Acetoxolone is a medication derived from glycyrrhetinic acid, which is a compound found in licorice root. It is primarily used for its anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties. Acetoxolone is known to inhibit the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which plays a role in the metabolism of corticosteroids.

Medical Uses

Acetoxolone is used in the treatment of peptic ulcers and gastritis. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Additionally, it has been studied for its potential benefits in treating chronic hepatitis and other liver conditions.

Mechanism of Action

The primary mechanism of action of acetoxolone involves the inhibition of the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. This enzyme is responsible for converting active cortisol to its inactive form, cortisone. By inhibiting this enzyme, acetoxolone increases the levels of active cortisol, which has potent anti-inflammatory effects.

Side Effects

Common side effects of acetoxolone include hypertension, hypokalemia, and edema. These side effects are primarily due to the increased levels of cortisol, which can lead to mineralocorticoid effects such as sodium retention and potassium loss.

Related Compounds

Acetoxolone is chemically related to other compounds derived from glycyrrhetinic acid, such as carbenoxolone and glycyrrhizin. These compounds also exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer properties and are used in similar medical contexts.

See Also

• Glycyrrhetinic acid
• Licorice
• Peptic ulcer
• Gastritis
• Corticosteroids
• 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase

External Links

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