Title:An Update On Proficiency of Voltage-gated Ion Channel Blockers in the
Treatment of Inflammation-associated Diseases
Volume: 23
Issue: 14
Author(s): Siddesh Kelkar, Namrata Nailwal, Nirav Yogesh Bhatia, Gaurav Doshi, Sadhana Sathaye and Angel Pavalu Godad*
Affiliation:
- SVKM’s Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Pharmacy, Mithibai College Campus, Vaikunthlal Mehta Rd, Vile Parle West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400056, India
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
Keywords:
Voltage-gated ion channel blockers, inflammation, inflammatory conditions, sodium channel blockers, potassium channel blockers, calcium channel blockers.
Abstract: Inflammation is the body’s mechanism to trigger the immune system, thereby preventing
bacteria and viruses from manifesting their toxic effect. Inflammation plays a vital role in regulating
inflammatory mediator levels to initiate the wound healing process depending on the nature of the
stimuli. This process occurs due to chemical release from white blood cells by elevating blood flow
to the site of action, leading to redness and increased body temperature. Currently, there are numerous
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) available, but these drugs are reported with
adverse effects such as gastric bleeding, progressive kidney damage, and increased risk of heart attacks
when prolonged use. For such instances, alternative options need to be adopted. The introduction
of voltage-gated ion channel blockers can be a substantial alternative to mask the side effects of
these currently available drugs. Chronic inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid and osteoarthritis,
cancer and migraine, etc., can cause dreadful pain, which is often debilitating for the patient.
The underlying mechanism for both acute and chronic inflammation involves various complex receptors,
different types of cells, receptors, and proteins. The working of voltage-gated sodium and
calcium channels is closely linked to both inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Certain drugs such as
carbamazepine and gabapentin, which are ion channel blockers, have greater pharmacotherapeutic
activity for sodium and calcium channel blockers for the treatment of chronic inflammatory pain
states. This review intends to provide brief information on the mechanism of action, latest clinical
trials, and applications of these blockers in treating inflammatory conditions.