| abstract |
(57) [Summary]nDisclosed are methods of treating a vascular condition associated with a local imbalance of vascular tone that has been hypothesized to be primarily due to increased endothelin (ET). The method may be a substance that can supply NO, such as nitric oxide (NO), a NO donor, a substance that activates guanyl cyclase, such as YC-1, or an endogenous NO, such as a phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor. Including administration of substances that prolong the action of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP; second messenger molecule). In accordance with the present invention, such agents are administered in minimal or trace amounts by any route known in the art, with doses of about 2 to 2 doses known to cause vasodilation in the "normal" circulatory system. One- to about one-twentieth (1/2 to 1/20) doses are determined. Low doses of these substances effectively improve the vascular condition associated with reduced NO production or reduced NO action by restoring vascular tone balance with little systemic effect in the normal vasculature. |