The homocysteine hypothesis: still relevant to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease?

Cleve Clin J Med. 2010 Dec;77(12):911-8. doi: 10.3949/ccjm.77a.10036.

Abstract

Although evidence suggests that the homocysteine hypothesis is still relevant as a predictor of cardiovascular risk, we cannot conclude that measuring the homocysteine level is useful in guiding treatment. Furthermore, studies of primary and secondary prevention show no evidence that taking folic acid or other B vitamins lowers the risk of cardiovascular events.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular Diseases / etiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Folic Acid / therapeutic use
  • Homocysteine / blood
  • Homocysteine / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia / blood*
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia / drug therapy
  • Hyperhomocysteinemia / enzymology
  • Primary Prevention
  • Vitamin B 6 / therapeutic use
  • Vitamin B Complex / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Homocysteine
  • Vitamin B Complex
  • Vitamin B 6
  • Folic Acid