Antihypertensives’ Rock around the Clock

Abstract

Although homeostasis is a commonly accepted concept, there is incontrovertible evidence that biological processes and functions are variable and that variability occurs in cycles. In order to explain and understand dysregulation, which has not been embraced by homeostatic principles, the allostatic model has emerged as the first serious challenge to homeostasis, going beyond its homeostatic roots. Circadian rhythm is the predominant variation in the body, and it is a pattern according to which many physiological and pathological events occur. As there is strong experimental and clinical evidence that blood pressure fluctuations undergo circadian rhythm, there is equally strong evidence that targeted time therapy for hypertension provides a better outcome of the disease. The research has gone even further throughout the development and approval process for the use of pulsatile drug release systems, which can be considered as an option for an even more convenient dosage regimen of the medicines needed.

Adaptogens on Depression-Related Outcomes: A Systematic Integrative Review and Rationale of Synergism with Physical Activity

“…In the case of the nervous system, these mechanisms include (i) steroid hormones and peptides that regulate the physiological response; (ii) neural signals that generate cross-talk between different areas of the brain; and (iii) brain stem nuclei raphe signals that modulate levels of arousal and mood through a main neurotransmitter, serotonin [ 9 ]. It is important to emphasize that repeated exposure to a stressor leads to the so-called allostatic load, which must be necessary to facilitate adaptation and prevent the disruption of systemic regulators (thresholds depend on each biological system) [ 10 , 11 ]. The allostatic load is defined as the additional energetic burden that the organism must bear to adapt and survive [ 12 ].…”