Repurposing Arthritis Medication Shows Promise in Enhancing Heart Attack Recovery

Recent research from Australian scientists suggests that an existing anti-inflammatory drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis may significantly improve outcomes after a heart attack. Published in the journal Cardiovascular Research, this groundbreaking study highlights the potential of applying immune-modulating therapies to cardiac care.

Although current treatments have increased survival rates for heart attack patients, many still suffer from extensive and irreversible heart damage, leading to decreased quality of life and increased risk of heart failure. The inflammation caused by a heart attack is a major factor in this damage, often resulting in long-term complications.

The team at the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute discovered through preclinical mouse models that abatacept, a drug approved for autoimmune diseases, can mitigate this inflammation. Abatacept acts by preventing the activation of T cells — a type of white blood cell integral to immune response. While T cells play a crucial role in protection against infections and cancer, they can become overactive following a heart attack, contributing to increased inflammation and cardiac damage.

In their studies, the researchers observed that administering abatacept post-heart attack reduced inflammatory responses within a week, preserving the heart’s ability to pump efficiently. This intervention stopped T cells from overreacting, thereby safeguarding cardiac function.

Immunologist Dr. Jonathan Noonan emphasizes the significance of this approach, stating, "Targeting the immune system has revolutionized treatments for cancer and autoimmune disorders, but similar strategies for preventing inflammation after a heart attack are still lacking. Our findings could pave the way for new therapeutic options."

With abatacept already approved for autoimmune conditions in Australia, transitioning this drug into clinical use for heart attack patients could be faster than developing a new medication. A single infusion within 72 hours of the event might reduce long-term complications, improve survival, and enhance quality of life.

Professor Garry Jennings AO from the Heart Foundation highlights the potential impact: "Heart attacks remain a leading cause of death and disability. This research opens avenues to better protect patients from inflammation-driven heart damage, promising improved recovery and survival rates."

Future clinical trials are necessary to confirm these benefits, but the prospects of repurposing an existing drug to dramatically alter post-heart attack outcomes are promising, offering hope for millions worldwide.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-repurposing-arthritis-drug-significantly-recovery.html