Mechanism of actions of some common toxic agents causing toxic cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Background: Toxic cardiomyopathy is related to heart failure in many cases and may lead to death. We focused on the mechanisms by which some common toxic agents cause cardiomyopathy. We searched in articles, case reports, experimental and clinical studies on this topic Our results have shown that the heart or the cardiovascular system is one of the most affected systems by toxic agents. We summarized studies which mentioned some common cause such as; "Anti-cancer drugs", "Anti-diabetic drugs", "Cocaine", "Ethanol", "Heavy Metals", and "Digitalis drugs" and their mechanism of action inducing cardiotoxicity. We concluded that mechanisms underlying toxic cardiomyopathy are complicated and variable. However, they generally include disruption of cell bioenergetics and intracellular calcium handling. It is also involved in: production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), development of oxidative stress and apoptosis induction. Conclusions: Toxic agents have a very harmful effect on the heart producing cardiomyopathy and heart failure. A lot of drugs and environmental toxins can produce cardiotoxicity including; anti-cancer drugs, anti-diabetic drugs, cocaine, ethanol, CO, and heavy metals their mechanisms of action are complicated and included many factors.