Arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor

Arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor is a type of pharmaceutical drug that is used to inhibit the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase. This enzyme is responsible for the conversion of arachidonic acid into leukotrienes, which are inflammatory mediators that can cause a variety of health problems, including asthma and allergic reactions.

Mechanism of Action

Arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors work by binding to the active site of the 5-lipoxygenase enzyme, preventing it from interacting with arachidonic acid. This inhibits the production of leukotrienes, reducing inflammation and the symptoms associated with it.

Uses

These inhibitors are primarily used in the treatment of diseases characterized by excessive inflammation, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They can also be used to treat certain types of cancer, as some cancer cells rely on leukotrienes for growth and survival.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors can have side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, they can cause more serious side effects, such as liver damage or kidney damage.

Examples

Examples of arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors include Zileuton, which is used to treat asthma, and MK-886, which is used in cancer research.

See Also

• Leukotriene antagonist
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug
• Cyclooxygenase inhibitor