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D'Amato A, Prosperi S, Severino P, Myftari V, Labbro Francia A, Cestiè C, Pierucci N, Marek-Iannucci S, Mariani MV, Germanò R, Fanisio F, Lavalle C, Maestrini V, Badagliacca R, Mancone M, Fedele F, Vizza CD. Current Approaches to Worsening Heart Failure: Pathophysiological and Molecular Insights. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1574. [PMID: 38338853 PMCID: PMC10855688 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Worsening heart failure (WHF) is a severe and dynamic condition characterized by significant clinical and hemodynamic deterioration. It is characterized by worsening HF signs, symptoms and biomarkers, despite the achievement of an optimized medical therapy. It remains a significant challenge in cardiology, as it evolves into advanced and end-stage HF. The hyperactivation of the neurohormonal, adrenergic and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system are well known pathophysiological pathways involved in HF. Several drugs have been developed to inhibit the latter, resulting in an improvement in life expectancy. Nevertheless, patients are exposed to a residual risk of adverse events, and the exploration of new molecular pathways and therapeutic targets is required. This review explores the current landscape of WHF, highlighting the complexities and factors contributing to this critical condition. Most recent medical advances have introduced cutting-edge pharmacological agents, such as guanylate cyclase stimulators and myosin activators. Regarding device-based therapies, invasive pulmonary pressure measurement and cardiac contractility modulation have emerged as promising tools to increase the quality of life and reduce hospitalizations due to HF exacerbations. Recent innovations in terms of WHF management emphasize the need for a multifaceted and patient-centric approach to address the complex HF syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea D'Amato
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Prosperi
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Severino
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Myftari
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Aurora Labbro Francia
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Cestiè
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Pierucci
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefanie Marek-Iannucci
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Valerio Mariani
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Rosanna Germanò
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Lavalle
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Viviana Maestrini
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Badagliacca
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Mancone
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Carmine Dario Vizza
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Hansen BL, Kristensen SL, Gustafsson F. Use of Inotropic Agents in Advanced Heart Failure: Pros and Cons. Cardiology 2024; 149:423-437. [PMID: 38237564 DOI: 10.1159/000536373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Use of inotropic agents in advanced heart failure (HF) has over time been evaluated in several randomized, controlled clinical trials (RCTs). However, the evidence for both efficacy and safety is conflicting. SUMMARY In this narrative review, the evidence for and role of inotropes in advanced HF are outlined. Readers are provided with a comprehensive overview of key-findings from 23 important RCTs comparing orally or intravenously administered inotropes. Clinically relevant pros and cons of inotropic regimens are summarized to guide the clinician in the management of advanced HF patients in different settings (e.g., out-patient, in-patient, and intensive care unit). Finally, future perspectives and potential new agents are discussed. KEY MESSAGES Long-term use of inotropes in advanced HF is controversial and should only be considered in selected patients (e.g., as palliative or bridging strategy). However, short-term use continues to play a large role in hospitalized patients with cardiogenic shock or severe decompensated acute HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Lautrup Hansen
- Department of Cardiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Lund Kristensen
- Department of Cardiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Finn Gustafsson
- Department of Cardiology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Wechsler M, Schwinger RHG. Repetitive Therapie mit Levosimendan reduziert NT-proBNP und verbessert NYHA-Klasse. AKTUELLE KARDIOLOGIE 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1799-7077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
ZusammenfassungNach Ausschöpfung aller leitliniengerechten Maßnahmen (OMT der Herzinsuffizienz; ESC-Leitlinien 2016, 2021) können chronisch herzinsuffiziente Patienten mit akuter Dekompensation
additiv mit dem Calcium-Sensitizer Levosimendan therapiert werden. Dies kann zu einer Steigerung der Ejektionsfraktion sowie anderen positiven Effekten wie Gewichtsabnahme und
Verbesserung der NYHA-Klasse führen und so die Symptomatik der Patienten verbessern.Seit 4 Jahren wird ein bei Erstvorstellung 78-jähriger Patient mit ischämischer Kardiomyopathie (EF < 20%) wiederholt bei auftretender Verschlechterung der Beschwerdesymptomatik
(Luftnot, Gewichtszunahme, NYHA-Klasse III–IV) wegen Linksherzdekompensation behandelt. Bei Dyspnoe in Ruhe und schneller Erschöpfung erfolgte auch eine EKG-Registrierung, ein
Echokardiogramm sowie eine Laboruntersuchung. Nach initialer Steigerung der Diuretikadosis und nach Anpassung und Optimierung der aktuellen Herzinsuffizienzmedikation (OMT) wurde
zur Steigerung der Ejektionsfraktion der Calcium-Sensitizer Levosimendan (0,1 µg/kg/min, nach 6 Stunden 0,2 µg/kg/min) verabreicht. Im Beobachtungszeitraum wurde 14-mal mit
Levosimendan therapiert. Im initialen Aufenthalt (NT-proBNP 8921 pg/ml) wurde zudem bei hochgradiger Mitralinsuffizienz ein Mitralclipping vorgenommen. Nach Levosimendangabe zeigte
sich jeweils ein deutlicher Abfall des NT-proBNP-Wertes sowie eine Verbesserung der Symptomatik (Abnahme von Gewicht und NYHA-Klasse). Die Nierenfunktion verbesserte sich.Bei chronischer Herzinsuffizienz mit rezidivierenden Linksherzdekompensationen kann die repetitive Gabe von Levosimendan die Ejektionsfraktion verbessern sowie den NT-proBNP-Wert
und das Gewicht verringern und somit zu einer Reduktion der Beschwerdesymptomatik (NYHA-Klasse) des Patienten führen und eine weitere ambulante Therapieführung ermöglichen.
Regelmäßig erhobene NT-proBNP-Werte können in der intraindividuellen Beurteilung auch unterstützend mit zur Indikationsstellung für eine additive Therapie zusätzlich zur OMT mit
z. B. Levosimendan oder Vericiguat beitragen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Wechsler
- Medizinische Klinik II, Klinikum Weiden, Kliniken Nordoberpfalz AG, Lehrkrankenhaus der Universität Regensburg, Weiden, Deutschland
| | - Robert H. G. Schwinger
- Medizinische Klinik II, Klinikum Weiden, Kliniken Nordoberpfalz AG, Lehrkrankenhaus der Universität Regensburg, Weiden, Deutschland
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Vishram-Nielsen JKK, Tomasoni D, Gustafsson F, Metra M. Contemporary Drug Treatment of Advanced Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction. Drugs 2022; 82:375-405. [PMID: 35113350 PMCID: PMC8820365 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-021-01666-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The introduction of multiple new pharmacological agents over the past three decades in the field of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) has led to reduced rates of mortality and hospitalizations, and consequently the prevalence of HFrEF has increased, and up to 10% of patients progress to more advanced stages, characterized by high rates of mortality, hospitalizations, and poor quality of life. Advanced HFrEF patients often show persistent or progressive signs of severe HF symptoms corresponding to New York Heart Association class III or IV despite being on optimal medical, surgical, and device therapies. However, a subpopulation of patients with advanced HF, those with the most advanced stages of disease, were often insufficiently represented in the major trials demonstrating efficacy and tolerability of the drugs used in HFrEF due to exclusion criteria such as low BP and kidney dysfunction. Consequently, the results of many landmark trials cannot necessarily be transferred to patients with the most advanced stages of HFrEF. Thus, the efficacy and tolerability of guideline-directed medical therapies in patients with the most advanced stages of HFrEF often remain unsettled, and this knowledge is of crucial importance in the planning and timing of consideration for referral for advanced therapies. This review discusses the evidence regarding the use of contemporary drugs in the advanced HFrEF population, covering components such as guideline HFrEF drugs, diuretics, inotropes, and the use of HFrEF drugs in LVAD recipients, and provides suggestions on how to manage guideline-directed therapy in this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniela Tomasoni
- Cardiology, ASST Spedali Civili, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Finn Gustafsson
- Department of Cardiology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Marco Metra
- Cardiology, ASST Spedali Civili, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy.
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5
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García‐González MJ, Aldea Perona A, Lara Padron A, Morales Rull JL, Martínez‐Sellés M, de Mora Martin M, López Díaz J, López Fernandez S, Ortiz Oficialdegui P, Jiménez Sosa A. Efficacy and safety of intermittent repeated levosimendan infusions in advanced heart failure patients: the LAICA study. ESC Heart Fail 2021; 8:4820-4831. [PMID: 34716753 PMCID: PMC8712777 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.13670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims The aim of the LAICA study was to evaluate the long‐term effectiveness and safety of intermittent levosimendan infusion in patients with advanced heart failure (AdHF). Methods and results This was a multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial of intermittent levosimendan 0.1 μg/kg/min as a continuous 24‐h intravenous infusion administered once monthly for 1 year in patients with AdHF. The primary endpoint [incidence of rehospitalization (admission to the emergency department or hospital ward for >12 h) for acute decompensated HF or clinical deterioration of the underlying HF] occurred in 23/70 (33%) of the levosimendan group (Group I) and 12/27 (44%) of the placebo group (Group II) (P = 0.286). The incidence of hospital readmissions for acute decompensated HF (Group I vs. Group II) at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months was 4.2% vs. 18.2% (P = 0.036); 12.8% vs. 33.3% (P = 0.02); 25.7% vs. 40.7% (P = 0.147); 32.8% vs. 44.4% (P = 0.28), respectively. In a secondary pre‐specified time‐to‐event analysis no differences were observed in admission for acute decompensated HF between patients treated with levosimendan compared with placebo (hazard ratio 0.66; 95% CI, 0.32–1.32; P = 0.24). Cumulative incidence for the aggregated endpoint of acute decompensation of HF and/or death at 1 and 3 months were significatively lower in the levosimendan group than in placebo group [5.7% vs. 25.9% (P = 0.004) and 17.1% vs. 48.1% (P = 0.001), respectively], but not at 6 and 12 months [34.2% vs. 59.2% (P = 0.025); 41.4% vs. 66.6% (P = 0.022), respectively]. Survival probability was significantly higher in patients who received levosimendan compared with those who received placebo (log rank: 4.06; P = 0.044). There were no clinically relevant differences in tolerability between levosimendan and placebo and no new safety signals were observed. Conclusions In our study, intermittent levosimendan in patients with AdHF produced a statistically non‐significant reduction in the incidence of hospital readmissions for acute decompensated HF, a significantly lower cumulative incidence of acute decompensation of HF and/or death at 1 and 3 month of treatment and a significant improvement in survival during 12 months of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martín J. García‐González
- Acute Cardiac Care Unit, Department of CardiologyHospital Universitario de CanariasCtra. La Cuesta—Taco, Ofra s/n, 38320 San Cristóbal de La LagunaTenerifeSpain
| | - Ana Aldea Perona
- Institut Municipal d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM)BarcelonaSpain
| | - Antonio Lara Padron
- Acute Cardiac Care Unit, Department of CardiologyHospital Universitario de CanariasCtra. La Cuesta—Taco, Ofra s/n, 38320 San Cristóbal de La LagunaTenerifeSpain
| | - José Luis Morales Rull
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Internal MedicineHospital Arnau de Vilanova, Institut de Recerca Biomédica de Lleida (IRBLleida)LleidaSpain
| | - Manuel Martínez‐Sellés
- Department of CardiologyHospital Universitario Gregorio Marañon, CIBERCV, Universidad Europea, Universidad ComplutenseMadridSpain
| | | | - Javier López Díaz
- Department of CardiologyHospital Clínico Universitario de Valladolid, CIBERCVValladolidSpain
| | - Silvia López Fernandez
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of CardiologyHospital Universitario Virgen de las NievesGranadaSpain
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6
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Liang B, Zhao YX, Zhang XX, Liao HL, Gu N. Reappraisal on pharmacological and mechanical treatments of heart failure. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2020; 19:55. [PMID: 32375806 PMCID: PMC7202267 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-020-01024-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is a highly frequent disorder with considerable morbidity, hospitalization, and mortality; thus, it invariably places pressure on clinical and public health systems in the modern world. There have been notable advances in the definition, diagnosis, and treatment of HF, and newly developed agents and devices have been widely adopted in clinical practice. Here, this review first summarizes the current emerging therapeutic agents, including pharmacotherapy, device-based therapy, and the treatment of some common comorbidities, to improve the prognosis of HF patients. Then, we discuss and point out the commonalities and areas for improvement in current clinical studies of HF. Finally, we highlight the gaps in HF research. We are looking forward to a bright future with reduced morbidity and mortality from HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Liang
- Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu-Xiu Zhao
- Hospital (T.C.M.) Affiliated to Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | | | - Hui-Ling Liao
- Hospital (T.C.M.) Affiliated to Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- College of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Ning Gu
- Nanjing Hospital of Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.
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7
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Levosimendan: What Have We Learned So Far? CURRENT ANESTHESIOLOGY REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40140-019-00346-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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8
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Pashkovetsky E, Gupta CA, Aronow WS. Use of levosimendan in acute and advanced heart failure: short review on available real-world data. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2019; 15:765-772. [PMID: 31354283 PMCID: PMC6588712 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s188761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Published data have shown potential advantages of levosimendan in the management of acute decompensated heart failure and advanced heart failure when standard medical therapies threaten hemodynamics and organ perfusion are unable to alleviate clinical symptoms. Levosimendan distinguishes itself from other catecholaminergic inotropes by its three mechanisms of action: positive inotropy, vasodilation, and cardioprotection. In addition, its pharmacokinetics allow for a longer duration of action from the metabolite OR1896 allowing for further cardiovascular therapeutic effects for several days, even after discontinuation of the parent drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Pashkovetsky
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Westchester Medical Center and New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Chhaya Aggarwal Gupta
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Westchester Medical Center and New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
| | - Wilbert S Aronow
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Westchester Medical Center and New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA
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9
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Iacovoni A, D'Elia E, Gori M, Oliva F, Lorini FL, Senni M. Treating Patients Following Hospitalisation for Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: An Insight into Reducing Early Rehospitalisations. Card Fail Rev 2019; 5:78-82. [PMID: 31179016 PMCID: PMC6545980 DOI: 10.15420/cfr.2018.46.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is a pandemic syndrome characterised by raised morbidity and mortality. An acute HF event requiring hospitalisation is associated with a poor prognosis, in both the short and the long term. Moreover, early rehospitalisation after discharge negatively affects HF management and survival rates. Cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular conditions combine to increase rates of HF hospital readmission at 30 days. A tailored approach for HF pharmacotherapy while the patient is in hospital and immediately after discharge could be useful in reducing early adverse events that cause rehospitalisation and, consequently, prevent worsening HF and readmission during the vulnerable phase after discharge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attilio Iacovoni
- Cardiovascular Department, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - Emilia D'Elia
- Cardiovascular Department, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - Mauro Gori
- Cardiovascular Department, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Oliva
- Cardiovascular Department, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda Milan, Italy
| | | | - Michele Senni
- Cardiovascular Department, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII Bergamo, Italy
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Oliva F, Perna E, Marini M, Nassiacos D, Cirò A, Malfatto G, Morandi F, Caico I, Perna G, Meloni S, Vincenzi A, Villani A, Vecchi AL, Minoia C, Verde A, De Maria R. Scheduled intermittent inotropes for Ambulatory Advanced Heart Failure. The RELEVANT-HF multicentre collaboration. Int J Cardiol 2018; 272:255-259. [PMID: 30131229 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2018.08.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ambulatory Advanced Heart Failure (AAHF) is characterized by recurrent HF hospitalizations, escalating diuretic requirements, intolerance to neurohormonal antagonists, end-organ dysfunction, short-term reduced life expectancy despite optimal medical management (OMM). The role of intermittent inotropes in AAHF is unclear. The RELEVANT-HF registry was designed to obtain insight on the effectiveness and safety of compassionate scheduled repetitive 24-hour levosimendan infusions (LEVO) in AAHF patients. METHODS 185 AAHF NYHA class III-IV patients, with ≥2 HF hospitalizations/emergency visits in the previous 6 months and systolic dysfunction, were treated with LEVO at tailored doses (0.05-0.2 μg/kg/min) without prior bolus every 3-4 weeks. We compared data on HF hospitalizations (percent days spent in hospital, DIH) in the 6 months before and after treatment start. RESULTS Infusion-related adverse events occurred in 23 (12.4%) patients the commonest being ventricular arrhythmias (16, 8.6%). During follow-up, 37 patients (20%) required for clinical instability treatment adjustments (decreases in infusion dose, rate of infusion or interval). From the 6 months before to the 6 months after treatment start we found lower DIH (9.4 (8.2) % vs 2.8 (6.6) %, p < 0.0001), cumulative number (1.3 (0.6) vs 1.8 (0.8), p = 0.0001) and length of HF admissions (17.4 (15.6) vs 21.6 (13.4) days, p = 0.0001). One-year survival was 86% overall and 78% free from death/LVAD/urgent transplant. CONCLUSIONS In AAHF patients, who remain symptomatic despite OMM, LEVO is well tolerated and associated with lower overall length of hospital stay during six months. This multicentre clinical experience underscores the need for a randomized controlled trial of LEVO impact on outcomes in AAHF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Oliva
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, ASST-Great Metropolitan Hospital Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Enrico Perna
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, ASST-Great Metropolitan Hospital Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Marini
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy
| | - Daniele Nassiacos
- Cardiology Department, ASST Valle Olona, Saronno General Hospital, Saronno, Italy
| | - Antonio Cirò
- Cardiology ASST Monza, San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Gabriella Malfatto
- Department of Cardiology, San Luca Hospital, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Morandi
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Ospedale di Circolo and Macchi Foundation, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Ivan Caico
- Cardiology Department, ASST Valle Olona, Gallarate Hospital, Gallarate, Italy
| | - Gianpiero Perna
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy
| | - Sabina Meloni
- Cardiology Department, ASST Valle Olona, Saronno General Hospital, Saronno, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Villani
- Department of Cardiology, San Luca Hospital, Istituto Auxologico Italiano IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Lorenzo Vecchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Ospedale di Circolo and Macchi Foundation, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Chiara Minoia
- Cardiology Department, ASST Valle Olona, Gallarate Hospital, Gallarate, Italy
| | - Alessandro Verde
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, ASST-Great Metropolitan Hospital Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | - Renata De Maria
- CNR Clinical Physiology Institute, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Department, ASST-Great Metropolitan Hospital Niguarda, Milan, Italy.
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Rodríguez-Santamarta M, Sayago I, López J. Alta efectividad de ciclos repetidos de levosimendán en una paciente con insuficiencia cardiaca avanzada. Med Clin (Barc) 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2017.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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12
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Silvetti S, Belletti A, Fontana A, Pollesello P. Rehospitalization after intermittent levosimendan treatment in advanced heart failure patients: a meta-analysis of randomized trials. ESC Heart Fail 2017; 4:595-604. [PMID: 28834396 PMCID: PMC5695198 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.12177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 04/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Intermittent levosimendan administration has been suggested to improve survival in patients with advanced heart failure (AdHF). Quality of life is a key issue for AdHF patients and is negatively affected by frequent hospitalizations. Methods and results CENTRAL, Google Scholar, MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Central Register of clinical trials (updated 15/1/2017) were searched for randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of intermittent levosimendan administration in patients with AdHF. The primary outcome was the number of patients requiring rehospitalization 3 months after the end of treatment. A total of 319 patients from six trials were included. Overall pooled analysis showed that the use of levosimendan was associated with a significant reduction in the number of rehospitalizations at 3 months: 33/207 (16%) vs. 39/113 (35%), risk ratio 0.40, 95% confidence interval 0.27–0.59, P < 0.001, I2 = 0%. This result was confirmed by sensitivity analyses. Conclusions Within the limitations of this meta‐analysis including also studies in which endpoints were not independently adjudicated and not clearly specified, repetitive or intermittent administration of levosimendan for patients with AdHF was associated with a reduction in the rehospitalization rate at 3 months. Large, high‐quality randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm this finding.
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Pölzl G, Altenberger J, Baholli L, Beltrán P, Borbély A, Comin-Colet J, Delgado JF, Fedele F, Fontana A, Fruhwald F, Giamouzis G, Giannakoulas G, Garcia-González MJ, Gustafsson F, Kaikkonen K, Kivikko M, Kubica J, von Lewinski D, Löfman I, Malfatto G, Manito N, Martínez-Sellés M, Masip J, Merkely B, Morandi F, Mølgaard H, Oliva F, Pantev E, Papp Z, Perna GP, Pfister R, Piazza V, Bover R, Rangel-Sousa D, Recio-Mayoral A, Reinecke A, Rieth A, Sarapohja T, Schmidt G, Seidel M, Störk S, Vrtovec B, Wikström G, Yerly P, Pollesello P. Repetitive use of levosimendan in advanced heart failure: need for stronger evidence in a field in dire need of a useful therapy. Int J Cardiol 2017; 243:389-395. [PMID: 28571618 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2017.05.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Revised: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Patients in the latest stages of heart failure are severely compromised, with poor quality of life and frequent hospitalizations. Heart transplantation and left ventricular assist device implantation are viable options only for a minority, and intermittent or continuous infusions of positive inotropes may be needed as a bridge therapy or as a symptomatic approach. In these settings, levosimendan has potential advantages over conventional inotropes (catecholamines and phosphodiesterase inhibitors), such as sustained effects after initial infusion, synergy with beta-blockers, and no increase in oxygen consumption. Levosimendan has been suggested as a treatment that reduces re-hospitalization and improves quality of life. However, previous clinical studies of intermittent infusions of levosimendan were not powered to show statistical significance on key outcome parameters. A panel of 45 expert clinicians from 12 European countries met in Rome on November 24-25, 2016 to review the literature and envision an appropriately designed clinical trial addressing these needs. In the earlier FIGHT trial (daily subcutaneous injection of liraglutide in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction) a composite Global Rank Score was used as primary end-point where death, re-hospitalization, and change in N-terminal-prohormone-brain natriuretic peptide level were considered in a hierarchical order. In the present study, we tested the same end-point post hoc in the PERSIST and LEVOREP trials on oral and repeated i.v. levosimendan, respectively, and demonstrated superiority of levosimendan treatment vs placebo. The use of the same composite end-point in a properly powered study on repetitive levosimendan in advanced heart failure is strongly advocated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Attila Borbély
- Division of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gregory Giamouzis
- University of Thessaly, Larissa University Hospital, Larissa, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jacek Kubica
- Collegium Medicum Nicolaus Copernicus University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | | | - Ida Löfman
- Karolinska Univ Sjukhus Huddinge, Huddinge, Sweden
| | | | | | | | | | - Bela Merkely
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | | | | | | | | | - Zoltán Papp
- Division of Clinical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Gian Piero Perna
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cardiologiche Medico-Chirurgiche, Ospedali Riuniti, Ancona, Italy
| | - Roman Pfister
- Klinik III fuer Innere Medizin, Herzzentrum der Universität zu Köln, Germany
| | - Vito Piazza
- Azienda ospedaliera San Camillo-Forlanini, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mirko Seidel
- Klinik für innere Medizin, Unfallkrankenhaus Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefan Störk
- Comprehensive Heart Failure Center, University and University Hospital, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Gerhard Wikström
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Patrik Yerly
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
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14
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Long-term intravenous inotropes in low-output terminal heart failure? Clin Res Cardiol 2016; 105:471-81. [DOI: 10.1007/s00392-016-0968-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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15
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Nieminen M, Altenberger J, Ben-Gal T, Böhmer A, Comin-Colet J, Dickstein K, Édes I, Fedele F, Fonseca C, García-González M, Giannakoulas G, Iakobishvili Z, Jääskeläinen P, Karavidas A, Kettner J, Kivikko M, Lund L, Matskeplishvili S, Metra M, Morandi F, Oliva F, Parkhomenko A, Parissis J, Pollesello P, Pölzl G, Schwinger R, Segovia J, Seidel M, Vrtovec B, Wikström G. Repetitive use of levosimendan for treatment of chronic advanced heart failure: Clinical evidence, practical considerations, and perspectives: An expert panel consensus. Int J Cardiol 2014; 174:360-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2014.04.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2014] [Revised: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 04/09/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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