Aficamten
Aficamten is a cardiac myosin inhibitor used in the treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). It is a small molecule drug that targets the myosin motor protein, which plays a crucial role in cardiac muscle contraction. By inhibiting myosin, aficamten reduces the hypercontractility of the heart muscle, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with HCM.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Aficamten works by selectively inhibiting the activity of cardiac myosin, the motor protein responsible for converting chemical energy into mechanical force during muscle contraction. In patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the heart muscle is abnormally thickened, leading to excessive contractility and impaired relaxation. By reducing myosin activity, aficamten decreases the force of contraction, which helps to normalize the function of the heart and improve symptoms.
Clinical Use[edit | edit source]
Aficamten is primarily used in the management of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a genetic disorder characterized by the thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle. This condition can lead to symptoms such as dyspnea, chest pain, syncope, and arrhythmias. By reducing the contractile force of the heart, aficamten helps to alleviate these symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with HCM.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of aficamten may include:
Patients are advised to report any adverse effects to their healthcare provider, as dose adjustments may be necessary.
Development and Approval[edit | edit source]
Aficamten is currently under investigation in clinical trials for its efficacy and safety in treating hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The drug has shown promise in early-phase studies, demonstrating significant improvements in cardiac function and symptom relief. Regulatory approval is pending based on the outcomes of ongoing clinical trials.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Cardiac myosin
- Heart muscle
- Left ventricle
- Dyspnea
- Chest pain
- Syncope
- Arrhythmias
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Hypotension
- Bradycardia
Categories[edit | edit source]
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