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Losartan in Cushing's syndrome

S Zacharieva1, M Orbetzova, E Natchev

  • 1Clinical Center of Endocrinology and Gerontology, Medical University, Sofia, Bulgaria.

Methods and Findings in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology
|May 30, 1998
PubMed

Insights

Losartan treatment in Cushing's syndrome patients lowered blood pressure by affecting the renin-angiotensin system. This study explored losartan's impact on active renin, plasma, and urinary kallikrein activity.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Cardiovascular Pharmacology
  • Renal Physiology

Background:

  • Cushing's syndrome is characterized by excess cortisol, leading to hypertension.
  • The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a crucial role in blood pressure regulation.
  • Kallikrein-kinin system interactions with RAAS in Cushing's syndrome are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of losartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker, on blood pressure and hormonal markers in patients with Cushing's syndrome.
  • To explore the relationship between the kallikrein system and the RAAS in this patient population.

Main Methods:

  • Eleven patients with Cushing's syndrome participated.
  • Standard sodium intake was maintained.
  • A single oral dose of 50 mg losartan was administered for 3 days.
  • Measurements included blood pressure, active renin, plasma kallikrein, and urinary kallikrein activity.

Main Results:

  • Losartan treatment significantly decreased both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
  • Active renin levels were stimulated by losartan.
  • Plasma and urinary kallikrein activity decreased following losartan administration.
  • Blood pressure reduction was independent of baseline active renin levels.

Conclusions:

  • Losartan effectively lowers blood pressure in patients with Cushing's syndrome.
  • The drug influences the renin-angiotensin system and kallikrein activity.
  • Further research is warranted to elucidate the complex interplay between the kallikrein and RAAS in Cushing's syndrome.

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