Omapatrilat

Omapatrilat is a type of vasopeptidase inhibitor that was developed by Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS). It is a dual inhibitor of neprilysin (also known as neutral endopeptidase) and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), two enzymes that break down vasoactive peptides.

Pharmacology

Omapatrilat inhibits both neprilysin and ACE, which are involved in the breakdown of vasoactive peptides. By inhibiting these enzymes, omapatrilat increases the levels of these peptides, leading to vasodilation and natriuresis. This dual inhibition is thought to provide additional benefits over ACE inhibitors alone, particularly in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure.

Clinical Trials

Omapatrilat was investigated in several clinical trials for the treatment of hypertension and heart failure. The most notable of these was the Omapatrilat Versus Enalapril Randomized Trial of Utility in Reducing Events (OVERTURE) trial. However, the results of these trials were mixed, and omapatrilat was not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to concerns about safety, particularly the risk of angioedema.

Safety

The main safety concern with omapatrilat is the risk of angioedema, a serious allergic reaction that can cause swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat. This risk was found to be higher with omapatrilat than with ACE inhibitors, leading to the FDA's decision not to approve the drug.

Current Status

Despite the initial promise of omapatrilat, the drug is not currently available on the market. However, research into vasopeptidase inhibitors continues, with the hope of developing safer and more effective treatments for hypertension and heart failure.

See Also

• Vasopeptidase inhibitors
• Neprilysin
• Angiotensin converting enzyme
• Hypertension
• Heart failure