What type of drugs is Entresto classified as?

Entresto is a medication specifically designed for the treatment of heart failure. It is classified as a neprilysin inhibitor in combination with an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). The active components of Entresto are sacubitril, which is the neprilysin inhibitor, and valsartan, which is the ARB. This combination works synergistically to enhance the levels of natriuretic peptides by inhibiting neprilysin, while at the same time blocking the angiotensin II receptor, both of which contribute to improved cardiac function and reduced heart failure symptoms.

Understanding the dual mechanism of Entresto is crucial in recognizing its therapeutic benefits in managing heart failure. By increasing beneficial neurohormonal modulation and decreasing the harmful effects of angiotensin II, Entresto addresses key pathophysiological aspects of heart failure that other classes of drugs, such as beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors, may not fully target.