Exogenous nitric oxide as an anti-infective agent.

Exogenous nitric oxide shows potential as an anti-infective agent, especially for pulmonary infections like tuberculosis, with evidence supporting its safety and efficacy at higher doses.

• Why it matters: Infections remain a major health challenge, and new treatments are needed to combat resistant pathogens and improve outcomes. Understanding NO's anti-infective properties could expand therapeutic options.
• What they did: The review examines topical NO-releasing materials, systemic NO-generating drugs, and inhaled NO gas, emphasizing inhaled NO's safety and efficacy at doses higher than those used in cardiopulmonary medicine.
• The result: Findings suggest inhaled NO may aid in treating pulmonary infections such as tuberculosis, highlighting its potential as a complementary anti-infective therapy.