Increase in plasma homocysteine levels induced by drug treatments in neurologic patients.
Homocysteine (Hcy) is a thyol amino acid resulting from de-methylation of methionine, an essential amino acid derived from dietary proteins. It is metabolized through two pathways: re-methylation and transsulfuration, which use as cofactors folate, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. Hyperhomocysteinemia has been identified as a risk factor for cerebrovascular disease, dementia, impaired cognitive function and depression. Several drugs may interfere with metabolic pathways of Hcy, leading to an alteration of plasma Hcy levels. Lipid-lowering agents, used to reduce the risk of cerebral venous thrombosis or occlusive vascular disease in patients with high levels of plasmatic lipids, can increase plasma Hcy levels. Hyperhomocysteinemia has been also documented in Parkinson disease patients treated with levodopa and in epileptic patients after chronic treatment with antiepileptic drugs. In contrast, vitamins supplementations may be warranted in patients treated with lipid-lowering agents, levodopa and antiepileptic drugs in order to maintain normal plasma Hcy values. In contrast, higher doses of vitamins can induce dysfunctions in central and peripheral nervous system; therefore excessive supplements should be avoided.
Siniscalchi
Antonio
A
Department of Neuroscience, Annunziata Hospital, Cosenza, Italy.
Mancuso
Franco
F
Gallelli
Luca
L
Ferreri Ibbadu
Guido
G
Biagio Mercuri
Nicola
N
De Sarro
Giovambattista
G
D002561:Cerebrovascular Disorders / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006710:Homocysteine / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D020138:Hyperhomocysteinemia / Q000139:chemically induced*; D010300:Parkinson Disease / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy*; D014815:Vitamins / Q000008:administration & dosage*
D014815:Vitamins; D006710:Homocysteine