Can lowering homocysteine levels reduce cardiovascular risk?

Article Abstract:

More and more evidence suggests that high levels of homocysteine in the blood increases the risk of vascular disease. Homocysteine is an amino acid. One study of men found that the 5% with the highest homocysteine levels had a risk of myocardial infarction three times greater than those with normal levels. Even levels that are considered to be at the high end of the normal range have been associated with vascular disease. Homocysteine levels are affected by genetic and dietary factors. Inadequate folate intake has been shown to increase homocysteine levels and increased folate intake has been shown to reduce high levels. Vitamins B6 and B12 also aid in homocysteine metabolism. High folate intake can even offset elevated homocysteine levels caused by genetic factors.

Health aspects, Editorial, Cardiovascular diseases, Risk factors, Arteriosclerosis, Homocysteine, Cysteine

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Atovaquone compared with dapsone for the prevention of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in patients with HIV infection who cannot tolerate trimethoprim, sulfonamides, or both

Article Abstract:

HIV patients who cannot tolerate trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole can be treated with dapsone or atovaquone to prevent Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). Researchers randomly assigned 1,057 HIV patients to take dapsone or atovaquone. Those taking atovaquone were slightly less likely to develop PCP but both drugs were effective. Patients who had already been taking dapsone did better on dapsone than atovaquone.

Evaluation, Prevention, Complications and side effects, HIV infection, HIV infections, Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, Dapsone, Atovaquone

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