zofenopril

Zofenopril is a sulfhydryl-containing angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used primarily for the treatment of hypertension and as a cardioprotective agent, including in acute myocardial infarction. It acts as a prodrug that is hydrolyzed in vivo to its active form, zofenoprilat. The primary mechanism of action involves competitive inhibition of ACE, thereby blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, resulting in vasodilation and reduced aldosterone secretion. This leads to decreased blood pressure and increased sodium excretion. Additionally, zofenopril increases bradykinin levels, which promotes nitric oxide (NO) release via endothelial B2 receptor stimulation and enhances endothelial function. Unique among ACE inhibitors, zofenopril also increases hydrogen sulfide (H2S) bioavailability and upregulates antioxidant enzymes such as thioredoxin 1 (Trx‐1) and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx‐1), contributing further to its cardioprotective effects[1][2][3][6].

Brand names

ZofenilZopranolBifrilZocardis

Other names

zofenoprilum [Latin]