From the Research
Elevated Asymmetric Dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels are a marker of endothelial dysfunction and increased cardiovascular risk, and treatment should focus on addressing underlying conditions and lifestyle modifications. The primary goal is to reduce cardiovascular risk through lifestyle changes and management of underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and kidney disease. Key interventions include:
- Regular exercise, such as 30 minutes of daily physical activity
- Adoption of a Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Smoking cessation Medications that may help reduce ADMA levels or mitigate its effects include:
- Statins, such as atorvastatin 10-80mg daily 1
- ACE inhibitors, like ramipril 2.5-10mg daily 2
- ARBs, such as valsartan 80-320mg daily 2 L-arginine supplementation (3-6g daily) may be considered to compete with ADMA, though evidence for its effectiveness is mixed 3, 4. It's also important to note that B vitamins do not have a significant effect on ADMA levels, despite reducing homocysteine levels 4. Recent studies, such as the one published in 2020, highlight the role of ADMA in the relationship between vascular dysfunction and inflammation in atherosclerosis, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to managing cardiovascular risk 5. Therefore, a multifaceted approach addressing lifestyle, underlying conditions, and potentially using medications like statins, ACE inhibitors, or ARBs, is recommended for managing elevated ADMA levels and reducing cardiovascular risk.