Entresto, also known by its generic name sacubitril/valsartan, is a medication used to treat heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Its mechanism of action involves a dual-acting approach to reduce the workload on the heart and improve its function.
How Does Entresto Work?
Entresto combines two active ingredients: sacubitril and valsartan. Sacubitril is a neprilysin inhibitor, while valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) [1].
* Sacubitril's Role: Neprilysin is an enzyme that breaks down natriuretic peptides, which are hormones that promote sodium and water excretion, dilate blood vessels, and reduce cardiac workload. By inhibiting neprilysin, sacubitril increases the levels of these beneficial natriuretic peptides [1].
* Valsartan's Role: Angiotensin II is a hormone that constricts blood vessels, increases blood pressure, and stimulates the release of aldosterone, all of which can put a strain on the heart. Valsartan blocks the action of angiotensin II by binding to its receptors, thereby preventing these effects and leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure [1].
Together, these two components work synergistically. Sacubitril enhances the effects of naturally occurring beneficial peptides, while valsartan counteracts the harmful effects of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. This dual action leads to vasodilation, reduced sodium and water retention, and decreased cardiac remodeling, ultimately improving heart function and reducing the risk of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization [1].
What Are the Key Benefits of Entresto?
Clinical trials have demonstrated that Entresto significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure compared to an ACE inhibitor. It also improves symptoms and functional capacity in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction [1].
When Did Entresto Become Available?
Entresto was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July 2015 [2].
What Are the Side Effects of Entresto?
Common side effects reported with Entresto include hypotension (low blood pressure), hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), dizziness, cough, and renal impairment [1].
What Drugs Are Similar to Entresto?
While Entresto has a unique dual mechanism, other medications used for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction include ACE inhibitors (like enalapril or lisinopril), ARBs (like valsartan alone), beta-blockers, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) [3]. Entresto's advantage lies in its combination therapy that targets multiple pathways simultaneously.
What Is the Patent Status of Entresto?
The patents for Entresto are managed by Novartis. Information on patent expiry and any related legal challenges can be tracked through resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [4].
Sources:
1. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
2. https://www.fda.gov/
3. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
4. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/