What drugs can damage mitochondria?

By SWA

Several classes of drugs have been identified as potentially damaging to mitochondria. The damage can occur due to various mechanisms, such as disrupting the mitochondrial respiratory chain, causing oxidative stress, or impacting mitochondrial DNA. Here are some notable examples:

  1. Antiretroviral Drugs:

    • Used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS, certain antiretroviral drugs, particularly those belonging to the class of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), such as zidovudine (AZT) and didanosine (ddI), can interfere with mitochondrial DNA replication.

  2. Statins:

    • While statins are widely used for lowering cholesterol, they can sometimes impair mitochondrial function. This is mainly through their effect on coenzyme Q10, a key component of the mitochondrial respiratory chain.

  3. Antibiotics:

    • Certain antibiotics, especially those belonging to the aminoglycoside family (e.g., gentamicin) and tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline), can be toxic to mitochondria, as they can inhibit mitochondrial protein synthesis.

  4. Chemotherapy Agents:

    • Some chemotherapy drugs, like doxorubicin and cisplatin, are known to cause mitochondrial dysfunction. They can induce oxidative stress and damage mitochondrial DNA.

  5. Antipsychotics and Mood Stabilizers:

    • Drugs like valproic acid, used in the treatment of bipolar disorder and seizures, can have mitochondrial toxic effects, potentially leading to steatohepatitis and liver failure.

  6. Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Drugs:

    • Acetaminophen (paracetamol) in high doses can lead to liver damage through mitochondrial dysfunction.

  7. Anesthetic Agents:

    • Propofol, an anesthetic, has been linked to mitochondrial impairment at high doses or during prolonged use.

  8. Neuroleptics:

    • Certain neuroleptic drugs can also have a negative impact on mitochondrial function.

  9. Psychoactive Drugs:

    • Some drugs used to treat depression and other mental health disorders can affect mitochondrial function.
It is important to note that while these drugs have the potential to affect mitochondria, their overall risk-to-benefit ratio often justifies their use in clinical settings. The occurrence and severity of mitochondrial damage depend on various factors, including drug dosage, duration of use, and individual patient characteristics.

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