Insights into cardio-oncology: Polypharmacology of quinazoline-based α1-adrenoceptor antagonists

World J Cardiol. 2015 May 26;7(5):238-42. doi: 10.4330/wjc.v7.i5.238.

Abstract

New uses of cardiovascular drugs with proven experience are emerging, including for treating cancer. Quinazoline is a compound made up of two fused six member simple aromatic rings, benzene and pyrimidine rings, with several biological effects. Cardiologists first used quinazoline-based α1-adrenoceptor antagonists prazosin, doxazosin, and terazosin; currently available data support their use as safe, well tolerated, and effective add-on therapy in uncontrolled hypertension with additional favourable metabolic effects. Recent findings highlight the anticancer effects of quinazoline-based α1-adrenoceptor antagonists, indicating that they may have a significant role in uncontrolled hypertensive cancer patients without signs of ischemia.

Keywords: Cardio-oncology; Doxazosin; Multidrug resistance; Prazosin; Terazosin.

Publication types

  • Review