Effects of Nitric Oxide on Carotid Intima Media Thickness: A Pilot Study

Cardiovascular disease is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Preventive treatment of high-risk asymptomatic individuals depends on accurate prediction of a person's risk to develop a cardiovascular event. Currently, cardiovascular risk prediction in asymptomatic individuals is based on the level of cardiovascular risk factors incorporated in scoring equations. Improvement in cardiovascular risk prediction is needed because atherosclerosis underlies the occurrence of cardiovascular events, develops over decades, and has a prolonged asymptomatic phase during which it is possible to modify the course of the disease. The carotid intima media thickness test (CIMT) is a measure used to diagnose the extent of carotid atherosclerotic vascular disease. The test measures the thickness of the inner 2 layers of the carotid artery-the intima and media-and alerts physicians to any thickening when patients are still asymptomatic. Early detection may indicate the need for a more aggressive approach to managing the risk factors associated with heart disease and stroke. The role of nitric oxide (NO) in maintaining the integrity of the cardiovascular system is well established. Utilizing a dietary supplement that restores NO production, the author conducted a pilot study involving 10 patients with stable plague. Six months of treatment with the NO lozenge resulted in a statistically significant 10.9% reduction in CIMT. This pilot study suggests this approach may be a safe and effective strategy for patients with early stages of atherosclerotic vascular disease.