PriMera Scientific Medicine and Public Health (ISSN: 2833-5627)

Review Article

Volume 8 Issue 3

A Review on The Role of Apocynin in Cardiovascular Health - A Game Changer

DE Nirman Kanna*, Subbulakshmi Packirisamy, S Dhanush and U Nirmal Kumar

February 27, 2026

DOI : 10.56831/PSMPH-08-275

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Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, often driven by oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. Apocynin, a naturally occurring methoxy-substituted catechol derived from Picrorhiza kurroa, has gained attention for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review evaluates the role of apocynin in cardiovascular health, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent. Relevant experimental, preclinical, and clinical studies were analyzed to assess its impact on oxidative stress, inflammation, platelet aggregation, endothelial function, and cardiovascular health. Apocynin has been shown to inhibit NADPH oxidase, thereby reducing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitigating oxidative damage. Studies indicate that it helps maintain vascular integrity, prevents endothelial dysfunction, and modulates inflammatory pathways involved in atherosclerosis and thrombosis. Additionally, apocynin's role in regulating platelet activation and improving nitric oxide bioavailability suggests its potential in preventing ischemic events such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Apocynin exhibits promising cardioprotective properties by targeting key pathological mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases. Its ability to reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and thrombolytic properties enables it as a potential game-changer in cardiovascular therapy. However, further clinical trials are needed to determine its efficacy, optimal dosage, and long-term safety in humans.

Keywords: Apocynin; NADPH oxidase inhibitor; cardioprotective thrombolytic; anti-platelet; cardiovascular diseases

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