Anti-inflammatory pharmacotherapy in patients with cardiovascular disease.

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading global cause of morbidity and mortality. In addition to traditional risk factors, inflammation is established as a key mechanism in the initiation, progression, and complications of CVD. Elevated inflammatory biomarkers correlate with disease severity and adverse outcomes, prompting the evaluation of anti-inflammatory therapies in several cardiovascular settings. Colchicine has demonstrated potential in reducing cardiovascular events, though recent trial data have raised concerns regarding its overall benefit and optimal application after myocardial infarction. Alternative agents targeting inflammatory pathways-such as monoclonal antibodies against interleukins (e.g. canakinumab, tocilizumab, ziltivekimab)-have shown biological efficacy but are not yet approved for routine clinical use in CVD. Emerging strategies, including immune-modulatory therapies and RNA-based interventions, seek to achieve selective anti-inflammatory effects with reduced immunosuppressive risk. Future approaches will likely adopt personalized, multi-targeted regimens that integrate inflammation control with lipid-lowering and antithrombotic therapies. As evidence accumulates, inflammation may transition from an adjunctive target to a central focus in CVD management.