The APEX Trial:Effects of Allopurinol on Exercise Capacity, Coronary and Peripheral Endothelial Function and Natriuretic Peptides in Patients with Cardiac Syndrome X

摘要

The role of endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of cardiac syndrome X has recently been recognised. Allopurinol has previously been shown to improve endothelial dysfunction, reduce oxidative stress burden and improve myocardial efficiency. In this ‘proof of concept’ study, we investigated the effect of allopurinol on exercise capacity, coronary and peripheral endothelial function, and serum B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP: a marker of cardiac function and myocardial ischaemia) in patients with cardiac syndrome X.