Use of nitric oxide scavengers to treat side effects caused by therapeutic administration of sources of nitric oxide

摘要

Nitric oxide scavengers, such as dithiocarbamate-containing compounds, are used to reduce side effects caused by therapeutic administration of nitric oxide sources by administering the nitric oxide scavenger(s) to the subject after the therapeutic effect of the nitric oxide source has been achieved. For example, the nitric oxide source can be coadministered with the nitric oxide scavenger, with the latter formulated in a time release vehicle selected to delay release of the scavenger for a period of time sufficient to ensure that the therapeutic goal of the nitric oxide source has been achieved before release of the scavenger. Formulations and kits, including a bubble pack with pairwise arrangement of unit doses of a desired nitric oxide source and nitric oxide scavenger, are also provided. The side effects of sildenafil citrate (Viagra), or of simultaneous administration of such a nitric oxide source in combination with another, such as nitroglycerin, are effectively controlled by the methods, formulations and kits of the invention.