Clinical Effectiveness of Tolvaptan in Patients With Acute Heart Failure and Renal Dysfunction

Evaluating the safety and effectiveness of tolvaptan in patients with heart failure and renal impairment: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Patients with heart failure and concomitant renal impairment are often prescribed loop diuretics, such as furosemide, as the primary treatment. The present meta-analysis is focused on analyzing the safety and efficacy of the implementation of tolvaptan as a novel approach in patients with renal impairment and heart failure.

METHODS

Two reviewers conducted a screening of articles using online databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase. Following a comprehensive literature search, seven articles that met all inclusion criteria (patients with heart failure and renal impairment) were selected for analysis. Subsequently, various primary and secondary outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

The primary outcomes of our study included urine volume, worsening renal function, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels, and creatinine levels. Tolvaptan demonstrated superior efficacy in increasing urine output with a standardized mean difference of 2.18 (95% CI 0.62-3.75, p = 0.006) and resulted in a lower incidence of worsening renal function with odds ratio 0.41 (95% CI 0.22-0.77, p = 0.006). Additionally, there was no significant difference in the tolvaptan and conventional treatment groups in changing serum creatinine levels with a standardized mean difference of - 0.37 (95% CI - 0.86 to 0.12, p = 0.135), but tolvaptan tends to decrease blood urea nitrogen levels with a standardized mean difference - 0.18 (95% CI - 0.30 to - 0.06, p = 0.004) in comparison to conventional treatment group.

CONCLUSION

While tolvaptan administration was related to better renal outcomes, unresolved heterogeneities and various factors could have influenced our findings. Further research is needed to evaluate the role of tolvaptan in the treatment of this patient population.

Diuretics for preventing and treating acute kidney injury

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a well-known complication of critical illnesses, significantly affecting morbidity and the risk of death. Diuretics are widely used to ameliorate excess fluid accumulation and oliguria associated with AKI. Their popularity stems from their ability to reduce the energy demands of renal tubular cells by inhibiting transporters and flushing out intratubular casts. Numerous studies have assessed the effects of diuretics in the context of AKI prevention and treatment. However, a comprehensive systematic review addressing this topic has yet to be conducted.

OBJECTIVES

This review aimed to explore the benefits and harms of diuretics for both the prevention and treatment of AKI.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies was searched up to May 2024 using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register are identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) Search Portal, and ClinicalTrials.gov.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We selected randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-RCTs in which diuretics were used to prevent or treat AKI.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently extracted data using standardised data extraction forms. Dichotomous outcomes were expressed as risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Where continuous scales of measurement were used to assess the effects of treatment, the standardised mean difference (SMD) was used. The primary review outcomes for AKI prevention studies were the incidence of AKI and any use of kidney replacement therapy (KRT). For treatment studies, the primary outcome was any use of KRT. The certainty of evidence was assessed per outcome using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 64 studies (83 reports, 9871 participants): 53 prevention studies (8078 participants) and 11 treatment studies (1793 participants). Studies were conducted in the following World Health Organization regions: the Americas (15), Eastern Mediterranean (9), Europe (25), South-East Asia (2), and the Western Pacific (13). Thirty-six studies were single-centre studies, 19 were multicentre, and the setting was unclear in nine studies. Diuretics were compared to placebo, no treatment or conventional therapy, saline solutions (isotonic or hypotonic), 5% dextrose, 5% glucose, Hartmann's solution, and Ringer's acetate. Overall, the risk of bias was low in one study, high in 19 studies, and of some concern in 41 studies. Three studies could not be assessed because they did not report any outcomes of interest. For AKI prevention, compared to control, diuretics may reduce the risk of AKI (38 studies, 5540 participants: RR 0.75, 95%, CI 0.61 to 0.92; I2 = 77%; low-certainty evidence) and probably reduce any use of KRT (32 studies, 4658 participants: RR 0.63, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.91; I2 = 0%, moderate-certainty evidence) and death (33 studies, 6447 participants: RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.92; I2 = 0%; moderate-certainty evidence). The use of diuretics may result in little or no difference in the need for permanent dialysis (2 studies, 956 participants: RR 0.52, 95% CI 0.08 to 3.47; I2 = 21%; low-certainty evidence), hypotension (7 studies, 775 participants: RR 1.27, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.86; I2 = 0%; low-certainty evidence) and hypokalaemia (6 studies, 1383 participants: RR 1.20, 95% CI 0.88 to 1.73; I2 = 43%; low-certainty evidence), and had uncertain effects on arrhythmias (13 studies, 3375 participants: RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.57 to 1.04; I2 = 53%; very-low certainty evidence). Diuretics may make little or no difference to changes in SCr within 30 days (8 studies, 646 participants: SMD 0.41, 95% CI -0.01, to 0.83; I2 = 82%; low-certainty evidence) but it was uncertain whether diuretics increased urinary output (8 studies, 1155 participants: SMD 1.87, 95% CI -0.20 to 3.95; I2 = 99%; very low-certainty evidence). For AKI treatment, diuretics may make little or no difference to any use of KRT (8 studies, 1275 participants: RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.04; I2 = 2%; low-certainty evidence) or death (14 studies, 2052 participants: RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.96 to 1.22; I2 = 0%; low-certainty evidence). Diuretics may increase hypotension (2 studies, 720 participants: RR 1.99, 95% CI 1.16 to 3.41; I2 = 90%; low-certainty evidence) and probably increase arrhythmias (6 studies, 1011 participants: RR 1.62, 95% CI 1.12 to 2.33; I2 = 0%; moderate-certainty evidence). Diuretics may result in little or no difference in hypokalaemia (3 studies, 478 participants: RR 1.52, 95% CI 0.70 to 3.31; I2 = 0%; low-certainty evidence). It was uncertain whether diuretics increased urinary output (3 studies, 329 participants: SMD 4.40, 95% CI -0.94 to 9.74; I2 = 99%; very low-certainty evidence). The need for permanent dialysis and changes in serum creatinine were not reported.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

When used for the prevention of AKI, diuretics may reduce the risk of AKI. However, our confidence in the effect estimate is limited. Diuretics probably reduce the incidence of KRT use, and we are moderately confident in the effect estimate. When used for the treatment of AKI, diuretics may make little or no difference to any use of KRT, and our confidence in the effect estimate is limited. More RCTs are needed to explore the role of diuretics for treating established AKI.

Comparative efficacy of different drugs in acute heart failure with renal dysfunction: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Objective

This network meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy of different drugs on cardiac function, renal function, and clinical outcomes in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) accompanied by renal dysfunction.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched to screen all clinical trials of AHF between January 1st 2001 and March 31th 2024. The primary outcome measures were N-terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, all-cause mortality within 60 days, and cardiovascular mortality.

Results

After screening 30,697 citations, 13 studies (21,745 patients) were included, and drugs including nesiritide, dopamine, tolvaptan, levosimendan, dobutamine, furosemide, and spirolactone, and high dose of diuretics (HDD, furosemide, and spirolactone) were estimated. The results indicated that HDD had the best efficacy in reducing NT-proBNP levels. In detail, HDD notably reduced NT-proBNP levels compared to conventional treatment or placebo (PLC) [MD = -950.24; 95% CrI (-1,832.21, -64.12)]. Levosimendan significantly increased GFR levels compared to PLC [MD = 14.46; 95% CrI (3.88, 25.97)] and tolvaptan [MD = 13.83; 95% CrI (2.31, 25.33)]. No significant difference was found in 60-day all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality across drugs.

Conclusion

HDD showed the best efficacy in reducing NT-proBNP levels compared with dopamine and nesiritide, and levosimendan could significantly improve GFR levels, with no marked difference in the effect of various drugs on 60-day all-cause mortality. Hence, HDD and levosimendan may be optimal agents in the treatment of AHF with renal dysfunction.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO, identifier (CRD42023454616).

Importance of early use of tolvaptan in hyponatremic acutely decompensated heart failure patients, a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Hyponatremia is one of the complicating findings in acute decompensated heart failure. Decrease in cardiac output and systemic blood pressure triggers activation of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, antidiuretic hormone, and norepinephrine due to the perceived hypovolemia. Fluid-overloaded heart failure patients are commonly treated with loop diuretics, acutely decompensated heart failure patients tend to be less responsive to conventional oral doses of a loop diuretic, while other different diuretics could work in different part of nephron circulation system. In this study, we aim to further examine the role of tolvaptan, a vasopressin receptor antagonist, in the treatment of hyponatremia secondary to acutely decompensated heart failure.

RESULTS

A total of 71 patients with hyponatremia secondary to ADHF were included, and all patients were given tolvaptan. 37 patients were administered tolvaptan early (up until 5 th day of admission). 34 patients received tolvaptan after 5 th day of admission mean administration as 6.86 th day, and median administration was 5 th day. Analysis showed lower length of stay in patients receiving early administration of tolvaptan compared to late administration (8.86 ± 5.06 vs 18.5 ± 9.05 p0.001, respectively). Patients with early initiation of tolvaptan also achieved a larger net increase in sodium levels at discharge compared to admission (6.46 ± 6.69 vs 3.68 ± 4.70 p0.048, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Early administration of tolvaptan in treating hyponatremia in acutely decompensated heart failure patients is associated with a lower length of hospitalization and a higher increase in serum sodium of patients in hyponatremic ADHF patients.

The potential effectiveness of tolvaptan in critically ill patients including cardiac and noncardiac populations: a retrospective observational study

We investigated the potential diuretic effectiveness of the selective arginine vasopressin 2 receptor antagonist tolvaptan in critically ill patients including cardiac and noncardiac populations. This was a single-center retrospective observational study. We analyzed the data of our hospital's critically ill adult patients (n = 473) including noncardiac as well as cardiac populations who had an ICU stay ≥ 4 days in 2019-2020 and who did not undergo renal transplantation or permanent renal replacement therapy before their ICU admission. Adjusting for several confounders (the patients' disease severity, comorbidities including cardiac disease, and diuretics used), we estimated the predictors for the patients whose daily urine volume had increased by up to twofold or more compared to the minimal value (the primary endpoint) by applying a multivariable logistic regression model. We also investigated tolvaptan's effect on time-course changes in the serum creatine (sCr) level (the secondary endpoint) by using a generalized estimating equation model. Tolvaptan use was significantly correlated with increased urine volume (odds ratio [OR] 1.86, 95%CI 1.13-3.06, p = 0.015) but was not significantly associated with time-course changes in the sCr level: beta estimator [95%CI], 0.07 [- 0.01 to 0.15], p = 0.08. Tolvaptan independently increased the urine volume, apparently without worsening the renal function in critically ill patients including cardiac and noncardiac populations.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction management: a systematic review of clinical practice guidelines and recommendations

Multiple guidelines exist for the diagnosis and management of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). We systematically reviewed current guidelines and recommendations, developed by national and international medical organizations, on the management of HFpEF in adults to aid clinical decision-making. We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE on 28 February 2024 for publications over the last 10 years as well as websites of organizations relevant to guideline development. Of the 10 guidelines and recommendations retrieved, 7 showed considerable rigour of development and were subsequently retained for analysis. There was consensus on the definition of HFpEF and the diagnostic role of serum natriuretic peptides and resting transthoracic echocardiography. Discrepancies were identified in the thresholds of serum natriuretic peptides and transthoracic echocardiography parameters used to diagnose HFpEF. There was agreement on the general pharmacological and supportive management of acute and chronic HFpEF. However, differences exist in strategies to identify and address specific phenotypes. Contemporary guidelines for HFpEF management agree on measures to avoid its development and the consideration of cardiac transplantation in advanced diseases. There were discrepancies in recommended frequency of surveillance for patients with HFpEF and sparse recommendations on screening for HFpEF in the general population, use of diagnostic scoring systems, and the role of newly emerging therapies.

Factors associated with readmission after long-term administration of tolvaptan in patients with congestive heart failure

INTRODUCTION

We investigated the factors associated with readmission in patients with congestive heart failure (HF) receiving long-term administration of tolvaptan (TLV) to support treatment decisions for HF.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 181 patients with congestive HF who received long-term administration of TLV. Long-term administration of TLV was defined as the administration of TLV for 60 days or longer. The outcome was a readmission event for worsening HF within 1 year after discharge. Significant factors associated with readmission were selected using multivariate analysis. To compare the time to readmission using significant factors extracted in a multivariate analysis, readmission curves were constructed using the Kaplan-Meier method and analysed using the log-rank test.

RESULTS

The median age was 78 years (range, 38-96 years), 117 patients (64.6%) were males, and 77 patients (42.5%) had a hospitalisation history of HF. Readmission for worsening HF within 1 year after long-term TLV treatment occurred in 62 patients (34.3%). In the multivariate analysis, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <30 mL/min/1.73 m 2 (odds ratio, 3.22; 95% confidence interval, 1.661-6.249; P = 0.001) was an independent significant factor. When eGFR at discharge was divided into two groups (eGFR < 30 vs. eGFR ≥ 30), readmission rates within 1 year were 53.3% vs. 25.4%, respectively ( P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

We revealed that eGFR was strongly associated with readmission in patients with HF who received long-term administration of TLV. Furthermore, we showed that eGFR is an important indicator in guiding treatment of HF in patients receiving TLV.

Tolvaptan and the role of kidney aquaporin-2 abundance in managing volume overload in patients with CKD

Objective

This retrospective study evaluated tolvaptan's efficacy, safety, and predictive indicators in managing volume overload in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients.

Methods

CKD patients with volume overload, treated with loop diuretics alone or with tolvaptan at Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, from 1 March 2022 to 31 December 2023, were included. Patients were divided into loop diuretic (Group C) and loop diuretic combined with tolvaptan (Group T) cohorts. Primary outcomes included volume control, changes in weight, urine output, and laboratory parameters within 1 week post-medication. Adverse events such as hypernatremia and hyperkalemia, etc., were recorded. We further conducted immunohistochemical staining of renal biopsy tissues to investigate the roles of aquaporin-2 (AQP2) in the collecting duct and plasma albumin in predicting the efficacy of tolvaptan.

Results

Of 174 CKD patients with volume overload, 108 (67.07%) were male. Group C and Group T each comprised 87 patients. At baseline, no significant differences in urine output and weight were noted. By day 3, Group T exhibited a greater increase in urine output (P < .001) and weight reduction (P < .001). At day 7, Group T maintained more significant diuretic effects (P < .001). More Group C patients required ultrafiltration therapy (P = .040). Adverse event rates did not significantly differ. Notably, AQP2 expression in the collecting duct may predict tolvaptan responsiveness, while plasma albumin did not affect efficacy.

Conclusion

Tolvaptan showed efficacy and safety in managing volume overload in CKD patients. The expression of AQP2 in the collecting duct could predict tolvaptan's efficacy.This study protocol was approved by the Ethics Committee of Zhongda Hospital Affiliated to Southeast University (Approval No. 2023ZDSYLL180-P01, Clinical Trial Registration No. ChiCTR2300075274, Trial Registration Link: https://www.chictr.org.cn/guide.html).

Clinical efficacy of tolvaptan in acute decompensated heart failure patients with severe aortic stenosis and atrial fibrillation: a sub-analysis from the LOHAS registry

BACKGROUND

Severe aortic valve stenosis (AS) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are risk factors of hemodynamic instability in heart failure (HF) management due to low cardiac output, respectively. Therefore, the treatment of HF due to severe AS complicated with AF is anticipated to be difficult. Tolvaptan, a vasopressin V2 receptor inhibitor, is effective in controlling acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) with hemodynamic stability. However, its clinical efficacy against ADHF caused by AS with AF remains to be determined.

METHODS

Clinical information (from September 2014 to December 2017) of 59 patients diagnosed with ADHF due to severe AS (20 patients with AF; 39 patients with sinus rhythm [SR]) was obtained from the LOHAS registry. The registry collected data from seven hospitals and assessed the short-term effects of tolvaptan in patients hospitalized for ADHF with severe AS. We attempted to identify clinical differences from baseline up to 4 days, comparing patients with AF (AF group) versus those with SR (SR group).

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between the groups in age (83.7 ± 4.5 vs. 85.8 ± 6.9 years, respectively; p = 0.11) and aortic valve area (0.60 [0.46-0.73] vs. 0.56 [0.37-0.70] cm2, respectively; p = 0.50). However, left atrial volume was larger (104 [85-126] vs. 87 [64-103] mL, respectively; p < 0.01), whereas stroke volume was lower (51.6 ± 14.8 vs. 59.0 ± 18.7 mL, respectively; p = 0.08) in the AF group versus the SR group. Body weight decreased daily from baseline up to day 4 in both groups (from 55.4 to 53.2 kg [p < 0.01] and from 53.5 to 51.0 kg [p < 0.01], respectively) without change in heart rate. Notably, the systolic blood pressure decreased slightly in the AF group after 2 days of treatment with tolvaptan.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term treatment with tolvaptan improved HF in patients hospitalized for severe AS, regardless of the presence of AF or SR. After achieving sufficient diuresis, a slight decrease in blood pressure was observed in the AF group, suggesting an appropriate timeframe for safe and effective use of tolvaptan.

Combinational Diuretics in Heart Failure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Diuretics are the cornerstone therapy for acute heart failure (HF) and congestion. Patients chronically exposed to loop diuretics may develop diuretic resistance as a consequence of nephron remodelling, and the combination of diuretics will be necessary to improve diuretic response and achieve decongestion. This review integrates data from recent research and offers a practical approach to current pharmacologic therapies to manage congestion in HF with a focus on combinational therapy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Until recently, combined diuretic treatment was based on observational studies and expert opinion. Recent evidence from clinical trials has shown that combined diuretic treatment can be started earlier without escalating the doses of loop diuretics with an adequate safety profile. Diuretic combination is a promising strategy for overcoming diuretic resistance in HF. Further studies aiming to get more insights into the pathophysiology of diuretic resistance and large clinical trials confirming the safety and efficacy over standard diuretics regimens are warranted.

The role of tolvaptan add-on therapy in patients with acute heart failure: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Background

Several conflicting reviews have concluded that the use of loop diuretics is associated with poorer clinical and safety outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of tolvaptan as an adjunct to conventional diuretic therapy in patients with acute heart failure (AHF).

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, ProQuest, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library until 24 May 2023 to identify randomized controlled trials that compared the effects of tolvaptan with conventional therapy and placebo in patients with AHF. The quality assessment of the included trials was conducted using the Cochrane risk of bias. A network meta-analysis (NMA) was conducted to examine the dosage effect of tolvaptan.

Result

A total of 17 studies with 18 reports, involving 10,039 patients, were selected. The tolvaptan add-on therapy significantly alleviated dyspnea [24 h: RR 1.16 (1.04, 1.29), 48 h: RR 1.18 (1.04, 1.33)], reduced body weight within 48 h [Asian group, MD -0.93 (-1.48, -0.38); non-Asian group, MD -2.76 (-2.88, -2.65)], reduced edema [RR 1.08 (1.02, 1.15)], increased serum sodium [non-Asian group, MD 3.40 (3.02, 3.78)], and resulted in a change in serum creatinine [MD -0.10 (-0.18, -0.01)]. No significant differences were observed in mortality and rehospitalization. The NMA suggested that an intermediate dosage (15 mg/day) might offer the best efficacy in reducing dyspnea within 24 h, reducing edema, increasing serum sodium, and lowering the incidence of worsening renal function (WRF).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the meta-analysis showed that tolvaptan contributed to the short-term alleviation of congestive symptoms, elevated sodium levels, and a lower incidence of WRF. However, no significant benefits were observed in long-term symptoms, rehospitalization rates, and mortality. An intermediate dosage of tolvaptan might be considered the optimal choice for various clinical outcomes.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/, PROSPERO (CRD42023420288).

Preliminary Report of Intravenous Tolvaptan Sodium Phosphate (Samtas®) Treatment in Decompensated Heart Failure

Background: Tolvaptan sodium phosphate (Samtas®; Otsuka Pharmaceutical, Tokyo, Japan) is a novel intravenous aquaretic diuretic aimed at individuals experiencing advanced congestion refractory to conventional diuretics and having difficulty with oral intake. Despite its potential, the true efficacy and practicality of this compound within real-world clinical settings remain obscure. Methods: A retrospective analysis of clinical data was conducted, examining trends among consecutive in-hospital patients diagnosed with congestive heart failure who underwent treatment with tolvaptan sodium phosphate at a prominent academic medical center between June 2022 and June 2023. Results: Twenty-one patients were enrolled (median age: 75 years, serum N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide: 8941 pg/mL). Among them, 14 patients (67%) received non-invasive/invasive positive-pressure ventilation, and 17 patients (81%) concurrently received intravenous inotropes. Subsequent to the initiation of tolvaptan sodium phosphate treatment, a significant increase in urine volume was observed on the following day (p = 0.036). Urine osmolality decreased from 356 (318, 443) at baseline to 247 (176, 333) mOsm/kg after 4 h (p = 0.002). No occurrences of hypernatremia were recorded during the therapeutic period. Notably, two patients transitioned from tolvaptan sodium phosphate treatment to continuous hemodiafiltration due to insufficient efficacy. Conclusions: In routine clinical practice, intravenous tolvaptan sodium phosphate exhibits potential efficacy and practicability in the majority of congestive heart failure patients exhibiting refractory congestion, unstable hemodynamics, and challenges with oral intake.

The characteristics and outcomes in patients with acute heart failure who used tolvaptan: from KCHF registry

AIMS

The use of tolvaptan is increasing in clinical practice in Japan. However, the characteristics of patients who used tolvaptan and the timing of its use in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) are not fully elucidated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Among consecutive 4056 patients in the Kyoto Congestive Heart Failure registry, we analysed 3802 patients after excluding patients on dialysis, prior or unknown tolvaptan use at admission, and unknown timing of tolvaptan use, and we divided them into two groups: tolvaptan use (N = 773) and no tolvaptan use (N = 3029). The prevalence of tolvaptan use varied widely from 48.7% to 0% across the participating centres. Factors independently associated with tolvaptan use were diabetes, poor medical adherence, oedema, pleural effusion, hyponatraemia, estimated glomerular filtration rate < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 , moderate/severe tricuspid regurgitation, dobutamine infusion within 24 h, and additional inotropes infusion beyond 24 h after admission. The mortality rate at 90 days after admission was significantly higher in the tolvaptan use group than in the no tolvaptan use group (14.3% vs. 8.6%, P = 0.049). However, after adjustment, the excess mortality risk of tolvaptan use relative to no tolvaptan use was no longer significant (hazard ratio = 1.53, 95% confidence interval = 0.77-3.02, P = 0.22). Patients with tolvaptan use had a longer hospital stay [median (interquartile range): 22 (15-34) days vs. 15 (11-21) days, P < 0.0001] and a higher prevalence of worsening renal failure (47.0% vs. 31.8%, P < 0.0001) and worsening heart failure (24.8% vs. 14.4%, P < 0.0001) than those without.

CONCLUSIONS

AHF patients with tolvaptan use had more congestive status with poorer in-hospital outcomes and higher short-term mortality than those without tolvaptan use.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02334891 (NCT02334891) and https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr_e/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000017241 (UMIN000015238).

Tolvaptan's Association with Low Risk of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease and Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

INTRODUCTION

Furosemide, a loop diuretic, is often empirically used to treat acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) initially. Conversely, decongestion using tolvaptan, an aquaretic, is thought to maintain renal function compared to furosemide. However, it has not been investigated in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) at high risk of developing acute kidney injury (AKI). This study aimed to investigate AKI incidence using tolvaptan add-on treatment, compared to increased furosemide treatment for patients with ADHF complicated by advanced CKD.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied patients with advanced CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <45 mL/min/1.73 m2) who developed ADHF under outpatient furosemide treatment. The exposure was set to tolvaptan add-on treatment, and the control was set to increased furosemide treatment.

RESULTS

Of the 163 patients enrolled, 79 were in the tolvaptan group and 84 in the furosemide group. The mean age was 71.6 years, the percentage of males was 63.8%, the mean eGFR was 15.7 mL/min/1.73 m2, and patients with CKD stage G5 were 61.9%. AKI incidence was 17.7% in the tolvaptan group and 42.9% in the furosemide group (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.34 [0.13-0.86], p = 0.023 in multivariate logistic regression analysis). Persistent AKI incidence was 11.8% in the tolvaptan group and 32.9% in the furosemide group (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 0.34 [0.10-1.06], p = 0.066 in the multinomial logit analysis).

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that tolvaptan may be better than furosemide in patients with ADHF experiencing complicated advanced CKD.

First reports of clinical effects of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in four patients with cirrhotic ascites refractory to tolvaptan

OBJECTIVE

Ascites in patients with decompensated cirrhosis can lead to abdominal distention and decrease quality of life. Tolvaptan, a vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist, is an effective agent in the treatment of ascites, whereas some patients are refractory to tolvaptan. The efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) for these patients is not known. In this study, we performed TIPS for tolvaptan-refractory cirrhotic patients and analysed its efficacy and safety in these patients.

DESIGN

This retrospective analysis included patients with liver cirrhosis who received TIPS for ascites or hydrothorax refractory to tolvaptan therapy along with conventional diuretics between January 2015 and May 2018 at Tokai University Hospital. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of TIPS.

RESULTS

This study included four patients. All patients presented with Child-Pugh class B liver cirrhosis and model for end-stage liver disease-sodium scores were 10/12/14/16. TIPS was generated successfully without any major complications in all patients. The body weight decreased by a mean of 4.7 (SD=1.0) kg and estimated glomerular filtration rate improved from a mean of 38.2 (SD=10.3) to 59.5 (SD=25.0) mL/min/1.73 m² in a month after TIPS procedure.

CONCLUSION

TIPS is an effective potential treatment for ascites in patients with tolvaptan refractory condition. In appropriate patients who can tolerate TIPS, the treatment may lead towards renal function improvement.

Impact of the time-to-target rate of urine volume concept on the outcome of acute decompensated heart failure

BACKGROUND

Early decongestion with diuretics could improve clinical outcomes. This study aimed to examine the impact of the time-to-target rate of urine volume (T2TUV) concept on the outcome of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF).

METHODS

This multicenter retrospective study included 1670 patients with ADHF who received diuretics within 24 h of admission. T2TUV was defined as the time from admission to the rate of urine volume of 100 ml/h. The primary outcomes were in-hospital death, mortality, and re-hospitalization for 1 year.

RESULTS

A total of 789 patients met the inclusion criteria (T2TUV on day 1, n = 248; day 2-3, n = 172; no target rate UV, n = 369). In-hospital mortality in the day 1 group was significantly lower (2.7% vs. 5.9% vs. 11.1%; p < 0.001) than that of other groups. The mortality and re-hospitalization for 1 year in the day 1 group was significantly lower (event-free rate: 67.7% vs. 54.1% vs. 56.9%; log-lank p = 0.004) than that of other groups. In multivariate analysis, predictors of T2TUV at day 1 were age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.04, p = 0.007), previous hospitalized heart failure (OR: 1.47, 95% CI: [1.03-2.12], p = 0.03), N-terminal-pro B type natriuretic peptide per 1000 pg/ml (OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01-1.04, p = 0.007), carperitide (OR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.48-0.99, p = 0.05), and early administration of tolvaptan (OR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.42-0.85, p = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

T2TUV of less than day 1 was associated with lower in-hospital mortality and decreased mortality and re-hospitalization at 1 year.

Predictors of Poor Very Early Diuretic Response and Effectiveness of Early Tolvaptan in Symptomatic Acute Heart Failure

BACKGROUND

Diuretic response (DR) in patients with symptomatic acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) has an impact on prognosis. This study aimed to identify predictive factors influencing acute 6 h poor DR and to assess DR after early administration of tolvaptan (TLV).

METHODS

This multicenter retrospective study included 1670 patients who were admitted for ADHF and received intravenous furosemide within 1 h of presentation in clinical scenario 1 or 2 defined based on initial systolic blood pressure ≥100 mmHg with severe symptoms (New York Heart Association class III or IV (n = 830). The score for the poor DR factors in the very acute phase was calculated in patients treated with furosemide-only diuretics (n = 439). The DR to TLV administration was also assessed in patients who received an additional dose of TLV within 6 h (n = 391).

RESULTS

The time since discharge from the hospital for a previous heart failure < 3 months (odds ratio [OR] 2.78, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34-5.83; p = 0.006), loop diuretics at admission (OR 3.05, 95% CI 1.74-5.36; p < 0.0001), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 45 mL/min/1.73 m² (OR 2.99, 95% CI 1.58-5.74; p = 0.0007) were independent determinants of poor DR. The frequency of poor DR according to the risk stratification group was low risk (no risk factor), 18.9%; middle risk (one risk factor), 33.1%; and high risk (two to three risk factors), 58.0% (p < 0.0001). All risk groups demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of poor DR with early TLV administration: 10.7% in the early TLV group versus 18.9% in the loop diuretics group (p = 0.09) of the low-risk group; 18.4% versus 33.1% (p = 0.01) in the middle-risk group, and 20.2% versus 58.0% (p < 0.0001) in the high-risk group.

CONCLUSION

Early administration of TLV in patients with predicted poor DR contributed to a significant diuretic effect and suppression of worsening renal function.

Efficacy of tolvaptan on the short and mid-term prognosis in elderly patients with acute heart failure coexisting with oliguria: A retrospective cohort study

Background

In patients with acute heart failure (AHF) coexisting with oliguria, high doses of loop diuretics are often ineffective in increasing urine output and may adversely affect the patient's prognosis, especially in elderly patients. We investigated the efficacy of adding tolvaptan (TLV) on improving the prognosis in elderly patients with AHF coexisting with oliguria.

Methods

All data for this retrospective cohort study were extracted from the electronic medical record system of the Second Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital from January 2018 to December 2020. Patients diagnosed with AHF coexisting with oliguria were enrolled in this study and were divided into TLV and non-TLV groups based on the use of TLV. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality at 7 and 90-day. The secondary outcomes were the remission of AHF within 7 and 30 days or continued progression of AHF, and new-onset chronic kidney disease (CKD) after 90 days. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to assess the relationships between all-cause mortality and diuretic regimens, demographics, laboratory parameters, comorbidities, and medications.

Results

A total of 308 patients met the study criteria for the final statistical analysis, and they had a median age of 91 years (88, 95). The results showed that the addition of TLV was associated with a decreased risk of the 7 and 90-day all-cause mortality in patients with AHF with oliguria [adjusted HR, 95% CI: 0.60 (0.37, 0.98), p = 0.042; 0.56 (0.41, 0.75), p < 0.001, respectively]. Adding TLV significantly increased urine output and decreased N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels in 7 days, and alleviated the progression of AHF within 30 days. There were no statistically significant differences between the patients with or without TLV in terms of the occurrence of hypernatremia, the development of hepatic impairment within 30 days, and new-onset CKD after 90 days.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that the addition of TLV was clinically effective in increasing urine output, and had favorable effects on alleviating AHF progression and may reduce the risk of all-cause mortality at 7 and 90-day in elderly patients with AHF with oliguria, and TLV had a good safety profile.

Trial registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=148046, identifier: ChiCTR2200055518.

Postoperative tolvaptan use in left ventricular assist device patients: The TOLVAD randomized pilot study

PURPOSE

Tolvaptan, a selective vasopressin type-2 antagonist, has been shown to increase serum sodium (Na) and urine output in hyponatremic left ventricular assist device (LVAD) patients in retrospective studies. In this prospective randomized pilot study, we aimed to assess the efficacy of tolvaptan in this population.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective, randomized, non-blinded pilot study of LVAD recipients with post-operative hyponatremia (Na < 135 mEq/L) (NCT05408104). Eligible participants were randomized to receive tolvaptan 15 mg daily in addition to usual care versus usual care alone. The primary outcome was a change in Na level and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), from the first post-operative day of hyponatremia (the day of randomization) to discharge.

RESULTS

A total of 33 participants were enrolled, and 28 underwent randomization (median age 55 [IQR 50-62]), 21% women, 54% Black, 32% ischemic cardiomyopathy, median baseline Na 135 (IQR 134-138). Fifteen participants were randomized to tolvaptan (TLV) and 13 were randomized to usual care alone (No-TLV). Mean change in Na from randomization to discharge in the TLV group was 2.7 mEq/L (95%CI 0.7-4.7, p = 0.013) and 1.8 (95%CI 0.5-4.0, p = 0.11) in the No-TLV group, though baseline and final Na levels were similar between groups. The mean change in eGFR was 2.6 ml/min/1.73 m2 (95%CI 10.1-15.3, p = 0.59) in TLV versus 7.5 ml/min/1.73 m2 (95%CI 5.2-20.2, p = 0.15) in No-TLV. TLV participants had significantly more urine output than No-TLV patients during their first 24 h after randomization (3294 vs 2155 ml, p = 0.043).

CONCLUSION

TLV significantly increases urine output, with nominal improvement in Na level, in hyponatremic post-operative LVAD patients without adversely impacting renal function.

Korean Society of Nephrology 2022 recommendations on controversial issues in diagnosis and management of hyponatremia

The Korean Society for Electrolyte and Blood Pressure Research, in collaboration with the Korean Society of Nephrology, has published a clinical practice guideline (CPG) document for hyponatremia treatment. The document is based on an extensive evidence-based review of the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of hyponatremia with the multidisciplinary participation of representative experts in hyponatremia with methodologist support for guideline development. This CPG consists of 12 recommendations (two for diagnosis, eight for treatment, and two for special situations) based on eight detailed topics and nine key questions. Each recommendation begins with statements graded by the strength of the recommendations and the quality of the evidence. Each statement is followed by rationale supporting the recommendations. The committee issued conditional recommendations in favor of rapid intermittent bolus administration of hypertonic saline in severe hyponatremia, the use of vasopressin receptor antagonists in heart failure with hypervolemic hyponatremia, and syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis with moderate to severe hyponatremia, the individualization of desmopressin use, and strong recommendation on the administration of isotonic fluids as maintenance fluid therapy in hospitalized pediatric patients. We hope that this CPG will provide useful recommendations in practice, with the aim of providing clinical support for shared decision-making to improve patient outcomes.

Benefits of tolvaptan on early dyspnea relief in patients with acute heart failure: A meta-analysis

Considering the prevalence of dyspnea in acute heart failure (AHF), its reduction is important to both patients and caregivers. This meta‐analysis was performed to determine the efficacy and safety of tolvaptan on early dyspnea relief in patients with AHF. A systematic search was made of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and clinicaltrials.gov, without language restrictions. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on treatment of AHF with tolvaptan, compared with placebo or blank, were reviewed. Studies were pooled to relative risk (RR), with 95% confidence interval (CI). Five RCTs (enrolling 4857 participants) met the inclusion criteria. Tolvaptan presented significant effects on 12 h dyspnea relief (RR: 1.98; 95% CI: 1.24−3.15; p = .004), 24 h/day 1 dyspnea relief (RR: 1.15; 95% CI: 1.07−1.24; p = .0003), 48 h dyspnea relief (RR: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.06−1.36; p = .004), and 72 h dyspnea relief (RR: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.02−1.37; p = .03). No significant increase was noticed in the incidence of worsening renal function in tolvaptan group (RR: 1.10; 95% CI: 0.87−1.39; p = .43). Tolvaptan treatment significantly improved patient‐assessed dyspnea early and persistently in patients with AHF.

Korean Society of Nephrology 2022 Recommendations on controversial issues in diagnosis and management of hyponatremia

The Korean Society for Electrolyte and Blood Pressure Research, in collaboration with the Korean Society of Nephrology, has published a clinical practice guideline (CPG) document for hyponatremia treatment. The document is based on an extensive evidence-based review of the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of hyponatremia with the multidisciplinary participation of representative experts in hyponatremia with methodologist support for guideline development. This CPG consists of 12 recommendations (two for diagnosis, eight for treatment, and two for special situations) based on eight detailed topics and nine key questions. Each recommendation begins with statements graded by the strength of the recommendations and the quality of the evidence. Each statement is followed by rationale supporting the recommendations. The committee issued conditional recommendations in favor of rapid intermittent bolus administration of hypertonic saline in severe hyponatremia, the use of vasopressin receptor antagonists in heart failure with hypervolemic hyponatremia, and syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis with moderate to severe hyponatremia, the individualization of desmopressin use, and strong recommendation on the administration of isotonic fluids as maintenance fluid therapy in hospitalized pediatric patients. We hope that this CPG will provide useful recommendations in practice, with the aim of providing clinical support for shared decision-making to improve patient outcomes.

Efficacy of Nondiuretic Pharmacotherapy for Improving the Treatment of Congestion in Patients with Acute Heart Failure: A Systematic Review of Randomised Controlled Trials

Diuretic therapy is the mainstay during episodes of acute heart failure (AHF). Diuretic resistance is often encountered and poses a substantial challenge for clinicians. There is a lack of evidence on the optimal strategies to tackle this problem. This review aimed to compare the outcomes associated with congestion management based on a strategy of pharmacological nondiuretic-based regimens. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases were systematically searched for all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of adjuvant pharmacological treatments used during hospitalisation episodes of AHF patients. Congestion relief constitutes the main target in AHF; hence, only studies with efficacy indicators related to decongestion enhancement were included. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included RCTs. Twenty-three studies were included; dyspnea relief constituted the critical efficacy endpoint in most included studies. However, substantial variations in dyspnea measurement were found. Tolvaptan and serelaxin were found to be promising options that might improve decongestion in AHF patients. However, further high-quality RCTs using a standardised approach to diuretic management, including dosing and monitoring strategies, are crucial to provide new insights and recommendations for managing heart failure in acute settings.

Efficacy of tolvaptan on advanced chronic kidney disease with heart failure: a randomized controlled trial

Background

Tolvaptan (TLV) is reported to improve diuretic effects in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) when furosemide (FUR) is not sufficiently effective. However, it is not clear whether TLV addition is effective for advanced CKD patients with heart failure.

Methods

An open-label, parallel-group randomized trial was performed. The subjects were 33 patients with CKD stage G3–G5 who had fluid overload despite taking 20–100 mg/day FUR. They were divided into two groups: a group administered 15 mg/day TLV plus their original FUR dose for 7 days (TLV group), and a group administered 120–200 mg/day FUR (i.e., 100 mg/day over their previous dose) for 7 days (FUR group).

Results

The mean change in urine volume was significantly higher in the TLV group compared to the FUR group (637 ml vs 119 ml; p < 0.05). The difference was greater when the urine osmolality before treatment was high. Serum creatinine was increased only in the FUR group. The incidence of worsening renal function (WRF) was significantly lower in the TLV group (18.8% vs 58.8%; p < 0.05). Serum sodium decreased significantly in the FUR group, but did not change in the TLV group.

Conclusions

In patients with advanced CKD with fluid overload, the addition of TLV achieved a significantly higher urine volume with less adverse effects on renal function compared with increasing the dose of FUR. The efficacy and safety of TLV were higher in patients who had higher urine osmolality and lower serum sodium before treatment.

Clinical trial registration

UMIN000014763.

Temporal Change in Renoprotective Effect of Tolvaptan on Patients with Heart Failure: AURORA Study

(1) Background: It has been reported that tolvaptan (TLV) has a renoprotective effect in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) patients, but whether this effect is continued for a long time is unclear. Thus, we evaluated the time course of the renoprotective effect of TLV, in addition to the prognosis, in ADHF patients. (2) Methods: We investigated 911 ADHF patients from the AURORA (Acute Heart Failure Registry in Osaka Rosai Hospital) registry. After propensity score matching, 58 patients who started to receive TLV at least two days after the hospitalization (TLV group) and 58 who did not (non-TLV group) were examined. We compared the changes in the creatinine (Cr) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) between baseline and each time point (five days, discharge, and one year) as the index of the renoprotective effect, and rate of rehospitalizations and all-cause mortality for one year between the two groups. (3) Results: The change in Cr and eGFR levels was significantly higher in the TLV group than the non-TLV group five days after admission but the difference between the two groups gradually diminished. A Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that the survival and rehospitalization rates in the TLV and non-TLV groups were similar up to one year. (4) TLV revealed a temporal change in the renoprotective effect, which may be correlated with no long-term beneficial effect of TLV.

Tolvaptan Add-on Therapy to Overcome Loop Diuretic Resistance in Acute Heart Failure With Renal Dysfunction (DR-AHF): Design and Rationale

Background

Diuretic Resistance in Acute Heart Failure (DR-AHF) was designed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the early tolvaptan (a vasopressin-2 receptor antagonist) add-on therapy in patients with AHF with renal dysfunction and to provide clinical evidence of loop diuretic resistance.

Methods and Results

This single-centered, open-labeled, randomized, and controlled trial enrolled 128 patients hospitalized with AHF, as participants. These patients with a wet-warm phenotype, whose estimated glomerular filtration rates are of ≥15 ml/min/1.73 m² and ≤ 60 ml/min/1.73 m², with a cumulative urine output of <300 ml 2 h after the first dose of intravenous furosemide, will be randomly assigned 1:1 to receive standard care with an uptitrating intravenous furosemide alone, or a combination therapy with 15 mg of tolvaptan administered once daily for 2 days. The standard furosemide treatment will follow the latest position statements of the Heart Failure Association. The primary endpoint is the cumulative urine output at 48 h. The key secondary endpoints include the improvement of fractional excretion of sodium at 6 h, the total dose of furosemide, and the incidence of worsening renal function (WRF) at 48 h.

Conclusions

Although the combination of diuretic treatment has recently gained more attention due to its physiologically synergistic action, its advantages may be outweighed by the substantial risk of electrolyte disturbances and severe WRF. Further, there is no consensus on the time point for early starting of add-on therapy and for the preferred diuretic combination.

Trial registration

NCT04331132.

Impact of tolvaptan on improvement of tricuspid regurgitation and right ventricular dimension in patients with right-sided heart failure

Managing right-sided chronic heart failure (CHF) due to tricuspid regurgitation (TR) remains a clinical challenge. Tolvaptan (TLV), a vasopressin V2 receptor inhibitor, is effective in controlling decompensated HF. However, its effects on right-sided CHF caused by TR are unclear. We sought to clarify the effects of TLV in CHF patients complicated with TR. The cohort consisted of 33 CHF patients with moderate or severe TR and permanent atrial fibrillation, who required hospitalization for HF. We observed 19 patients treated with TLV plus conventional therapies (TLV group) and 14 patients with conventional therapies alone (conventional group). Clinical characteristics, echocardiographic parameters, and laboratory data were investigated. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. In the TLV group, the severity of TR at admission was 73.7% moderate and 26.3% severe. In the conventional group, these percentages were 85.7% and 14.3%, respectively. During the follow-up, the severity of TR improved in the TLV group (trivial-mild: 52.6%; moderate: 36.8%; severe: 10.5%) (p < 0.01). However, it did not improve in the conventional group (trivial-mild: 21.4%; moderate: 50.0%; severe: 28.6%) (p = 0.08). The diameter of the tricuspid annulus (p < 0.01), basal (p = 0.02), and mid right ventricle (p = 0.04) was reduced at follow-up in the TLV group. Nevertheless, these parameters did not change in the conventional group. Serum creatinine levels were maintained (p = 0.74) in the TLV group, but deteriorated in the conventional group (p = 0.03). TLV reduced right ventricular dimensions and improved TR without deterioration of renal function. Thus, TLV may be a new drug for the treatment of CHF patients with TR.

Insights of Worsening Renal Function in Type 1 Cardiorenal Syndrome: From the Pathogenesis, Biomarkers to Treatment

Type-1 cardiorenal syndrome refers to acute kidney injury induced by acute worsening cardiac function. Worsening renal function is a strong and independent predictive factor for poor prognosis. Currently, several problems of the type-1 cardiorenal syndrome have not been fully elucidated. The pathogenesis mechanism of renal dysfunction is unclear. Besides, the diagnostic efficiency, sensitivity, and specificity of the existing biomarkers are doubtful. Furthermore, the renal safety of the therapeutic strategies for acute heart failure (AHF) is still ambiguous. Based on these issues, we systematically summarized and depicted the research actualities and predicaments of the pathogenesis, diagnostic markers, and therapeutic strategies of worsening renal function in type-1 cardiorenal syndrome.

Possible Option for Treatment of Severe Congestive Heart Failure Under Mechanical Ventilation Using Tolvaptan via Nasogastric Tube: A Single-Center Analysis

Background: The oral vasopressin-2 receptor antagonist tolvaptan causes aquaresis, and its effect on heart failure is proven. However, it is not recommended in patients who are unable to appropriately respond to thirst because of possible severe hypernatremia. Aim: To assess the safety and efficacy of tolvaptan treatment via nasogastric tube in patients who are unable to respond to thirst by fluid ingestion. Methods: We analyzed 70 consecutive patients with severe congestive heart failure (CHF) who were resistant to loop diuretics and treated with tolvaptan. From the 70 patients, 12 required endotracheal intubation under sedation (Group Tube; GT) and 58 did not (Group Oral; GO). We administered tolvaptan orally in GO; however, in GT, we had to administer tolvaptan via nasogastric tube to achieve pulmonary decongestion quickly. In GT, serum sodium level was monitored closely, and intravenous fluid infusion volume was controlled in the intensive care unit (ICU). Outcomes, including safety and efficacy parameters, were evaluated. Results: In both groups, tolvaptan treatment did not develop a significant rise in serum sodium level compared with baseline, and the incidence of worsening renal failure was comparable, despite greater net fluid loss and higher doses of loop diuretics used in patients of GT compared to GO. In GT, all patients achieved pulmonary decongestion and were weaned from mechanical ventilation. Conclusions: In sedated patients with severe CHF who are unable to respond to thirst by fluid ingestion, tolvaptan can be used without clinically significant hypernatremia under close monitoring in the ICU.

Cost-Effectiveness of long-term tolvaptan administration for chronic heart failure treatment in Japan

BACKGROUND

Tolvaptan (TLV) is effective for acute heart failure (HF) with congestion, but its long-term administration in patients with chronic HF (CHF) remains controversial. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of TLV for CHF treatment has not yet been investigated. Thus, we sought to validate the cost-effectiveness of TLV for CHF treatment in Japan.

METHODS

A Markov model was developed to compare total costs, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) between long-term TLV strategy and the standard strategy using furosemide for CHF. The target population included 75-year-old patients with CHF. The effectiveness of the TLV strategy for CHF treatment was determined based on a systematic review and meta-analysis. We used a 10-year horizon, with sensitivity analyses for significant variables and a scenario analysis for patients with CHF receiving high-dose furosemide (≥60 mg per day).

RESULTS

In the base case analysis, the total cost of the long-term TLV strategy was higher than that of the standard strategy (\3,243,779 vs. \1,179,964). The total QALYs of the long-term TLV strategy were lower than those of the standard strategy (4.52 vs 4.59). Thus, a standard TLV prescription for CHF treatment has no clinical or economic benefit. In the scenario analysis (i.e. in patients with CHF receiving high-dose furosemide), the long-term TLV strategy was more effective (total QALYs, 5.10 vs. 4.41) but more expensive (total costs, \3,540,558 vs. \1,272,208) than the standard strategy. The ICER of the TLV strategy against the standard strategy (¥3,289,579/QALY) was below the willingness-to-pay of \5,000,000, which suggests that the long-term TLV strategy is cost-effective relative to the standard strategy in patients with CHF receiving high-dose furosemide.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term TLV administration did not provide a clear benefit for all patients with CHF. However, this treatment strategy may be a cost-effective therapeutic option for patients who require high-dose furosemide.

Dyspnea Measurement in Acute Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Evidence Map of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background: Dyspnea is the most common presenting symptom among patients hospitalized for acute heart failure (AHF). Dyspnea relief constitutes a clinically relevant therapeutic target and endpoint for clinical trials and regulatory approval. However, there have been no widely accepted dyspnea measurement standards in AHF. By systematic review and mapping the current evidence of the applied scales, timing, and results of measurement, we hope to provide some new insights and recommendations for dyspnea measurement. Methods: PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched from inception until August 27, 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with dyspnea severity measured as the endpoint in patients with AHF were included. Results: Out of a total of 63 studies, 28 had dyspnea as the primary endpoint. The Likert scale (34, 54%) and visual analog scale (VAS) (22, 35%) were most widely used for dyspnea assessment. Among the 43 studies with detailed results, dyspnea was assessed most frequently on days 1, 2, 3, and 6 h after randomization or drug administration. Compared with control groups, better dyspnea relief was observed in the experimental groups in 21 studies. Only four studies that assessed tolvaptan compared with control on the proportion of dyspnea improvement met the criteria for meta-analyses, which did not indicate beneficial effect of dyspnea improvement on day 1 (RR: 1.16; 95% CI: 0.99-1.37; p = 0.07; I ² = 61%). Conclusion: The applied scales, analytical approaches, and timing of measurement are in diversity, which has impeded the comprehensive evaluation of clinical efficacy of potential therapies managing dyspnea in patients with AHF. Developing a more general measurement tool established on the unified unidimensional scales, standardized operation protocol to record the continuation, and clinically significant difference of dyspnea variation may be a promising approach. In addition, to evaluate the effect of experimental therapies on dyspnea more precisely, the screening time and blinded assessment are factors that need to be considered.

Efficacy and safety of tolvaptan in acute heart failure patients during long-distance transportation

AIMS

Treating patients with acute heart failure is difficult at the local hospitals in medically depopulated areas where cardiologists are generally absent. These patients require long-distance and time-consuming transportation to the intensive care units. It is well known that tolvaptan is effective for the treatment of congestive heart failure, but the effect of prehospital tolvaptan use in patients is not well evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of prehospital tolvaptan use in patients with acute congestive heart failure who require long-distance and time-consuming transportation.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 30 patients who were newly diagnosed with acute heart failure at Wakkanai City Hospital and transported to Nayoro City General Hospital between January 2013 and May 2020. The patients were classified into those who received tolvaptan (tolvaptan group, n = 18) and did not receive tolvaptan (control group, n = 12).

RESULTS

The percentage of patient survival at discharge did not show a statistically significant difference between the groups (100% [tolvaptan] vs. 91% [control], p = 0.414). During transportation, the percentage of patients in the tolvaptan group who required increased oxygen doses was statistically significantly lower than that in the control group (0% vs. 36%, p = 0.0181). Patients in the tolvaptan group had statistically significantly shorter intensive care unit stays (median: 2 days vs. 6 days, p = 0.0376), less days to discontinuation of oxygen (median: 2.8 days vs. 6.9 days, p < 0.00125), and less days to ambulation (median: 1.5 days vs. 7.5 days, p = 0.0362) compared with the control group. In the tolvaptan group, blood pressure was not different; however, heart rate was statistically significantly reduced (99 ± 21 vs. 88 ± 21 beats per minute, p = 0.016) during transportation.

CONCLUSION

The use of tolvaptan in patients with acute heart failure requiring long-distance transport is safe and may show better clinical course compared with conventional therapies.

Right ventricular contractility affects the clinical efficacy of add-on tolvaptan following hospitalization for heart failure in patients with significant tricuspid regurgitation

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a common condition that is independently associated with high mortality rates in patients with heart failure (HF). Several studies have demonstrated the clinical efficacy of add-on tolvaptan in patients hospitalized for HF. However, the effects of add-on tolvaptan in patients with significant TR are less well understood. Among the patients with moderate-to-severe TR assessed by transthoracic echocardiography during hospitalization for congestive HF, 39 patients who could complete the clinical course after starting add-on tolvaptan were included in the study. Rehospitalization due to HF and cardiac death were defined as adverse cardiac events in this study. We investigated the presence or absence of cardiac events within 2 years following the introduction of tolvaptan and evaluated echocardiographic functional parameters associated with cardiac events. The average patient age was 75 ± 14 years, and 23 patients (59%) experienced adverse cardiac events within 2 years after add-on tolvaptan administration. Serum creatinine (mg/dL) and brain natriuretic peptide (pg/mL) concentrations at discharge were significantly higher in patients with cardiac events than in those without cardiac events {1.48 [1.02-1.58] vs. 1.07 [0.79-1.41], p = 0.03; 526 [414-1044] vs. 185 [104-476], p = 0.01, respectively}. The presence or absence of past hospitalization for HF was also significantly higher in the event-positive group compared to event-free group (78 vs. 44%, p = 0.04). Comparison of echocardiographic parameters revealed that patients with cardiac events had a significantly lower left ventricular ejection fraction (40 ± 16 vs. 49 ± 15%, p = 0.049) and lower right ventricular fractional area change (RVFAC) (35 ± 12 vs. 45 ± 10%, p = 0.008) than those without cardiac events. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that RVFAC and past hospitalization for HF were independently associated with cardiac events following the introduction of tolvaptan (odds ratio, 0.934 and 4.992; p = 0.048 and 0.04, respectively). Right ventricular contractility as well as past history of admission for HF, left ventricular ejection fraction, renal function, and brain natriuretic peptide level at discharge may reflect the clinical outcomes after HF hospitalization in patients with significant TR who were treated with tolvaptan.

Risks of vaptans in hypernatremia and serum sodium overcorrection: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

Serum sodium overcorrection and hypernatremia are significant health risks. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the risks of vaptans in hypernatremia and serum sodium overcorrection.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL for randomised controlled trials. We included studies comparing vaptans and placebo with data on hypernatremia and serum sodium overcorrection. The study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's risk-of-bias assessment tool. Fixed-effect model meta-analysis was used to pool the data. Different analyses were performed to ensure the accuracy of the results.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight studies were included in the meta-analysis of hypernatremia incidence. Treatment with vaptans resulted in a higher risk of hypernatremia than placebo (3.8% vs 1.0%, odds ratio [OR] 2.69; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.97-3.68). The subgroup with baseline hyponatremia had a lower risk of hypernatremia incidence; however, the use of loop diuretics increased the risk. Fourteen studies were included in the analysis of the incidence of serum sodium overcorrection. A higher risk of serum sodium overcorrection was found in using vaptans vs placebo (4.4% vs 1.4%; OR 2.26; 95% CI 1.32-3.86).

CONCLUSION

Vaptans showed higher risks in the incidence of hypernatremia and serum sodium overcorrection than placebo. In addition, combination with loop diuretics increased the risk of hypernatremia. The risk of serum sodium overcorrection should be concerned in patients with hyponatremia and normal serum sodium equally. Using a low dose of vaptans can reduce both risks.

Characterization of tolvaptan response and its impact on the outcome for patients with heart failure

BACKGROUND

Conventional diuretic therapy such as loop diuretics is a cornerstone of the treatment for heart failure (HF). Diuretic response is an important factor in determining resistance to HF therapy and has been shown to be associated with subsequent clinical outcome. Tolvaptan (TVP), a vasopressin V2 receptor antagonist, has a favorable profile in terms of rapid fluid removal and less aggravation of renal function. We hypothesized that the response to TVP might be associated with the subsequent clinical outcome.

METHOD

In this single-center retrospective study, 148 consecutive HF patients who were administered TVP from 2014 through 2018 [age 79 (69-86) years, male 89 (60%)] were included. Ninety-six patients were divided into TVP responder [N = 39 (41%)] and non-responder groups based on the cut-off value of gained urine output (+ 93 ml/mg TVP /day) on the day after TVP was introduced.

RESULTS

Early TVP introduction (p = 0.012) and lower dose of loop diuretics (p = 0.043) were predictors of TVP responder. For 2 years after discharge, TVP responders showed more favorable outcomes regarding the primary endpoint defined as the composite of all-cause death and HF readmission (p = 0.034, log-rank test) and HF readmission (p = 0.005). A multivariable Cox model analysis revealed that TVP responder was an independent predictor of the primary endpoint (hazard ratio 0.48, p = 0.041). TVP responders had a lower number of HF readmissions over a 1-year period (p = 0.002). TVP response was independently associated with the number of HF readmissions (p = 0.015). The proportion of patients with an extended period between discharge and HF readmission after TVP administration was higher in responders than non-responders (67% vs. 23%, p = 0.006). These associations of TVP response and post-discharge outcomes were more evident in patients who continued TVP after discharge.

CONCLUSION

TVP response can be indicative of subsequent clinical outcomes and may be informative when considering advanced care planning.

Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibition in patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure: rationale for and design of the EMPULSE trial

AIMS

Treatment with sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors improves outcomes in patients with chronic heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction. There is limited experience with the in-hospital initiation of SGLT2 inhibitors in patients with acute HF (AHF) with or without diabetes. EMPULSE is designed to assess the clinical benefit and safety of the SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin compared with placebo in patients hospitalized with AHF.

METHODS

EMPULSE is a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled multinational trial comparing the in-hospital initiation of empagliflozin (10 mg once daily) with placebo. Approximately 500 patients admitted for AHF with dyspnoea, signs of fluid overload, and elevated natriuretic peptides will be randomized 1:1 stratified to HF status (de-novo and decompensated chronic HF) to either empagliflozin or placebo at approximately 165 sites across North America, Europe and Asia. Patients will be enrolled regardless of ejection fraction and diabetes status and will be randomized during hospitalization and after stabilization (between 24 h and 5 days after admission), with treatment continued up to 90 days after initiation. The primary outcome is clinical benefit at 90 days, consisting of a composite of all-cause death, HF events, and ≥5 point change from baseline in Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire total symptom score (KCCQ-TSS), assessed using a 'win-ratio' approach. Secondary outcomes include assessments of safety, change in KCCQ-TSS from baseline to 90 days and change in natriuretic peptides from baseline to 30 days.

CONCLUSION

The EMPULSE trial will evaluate the clinical benefit and safety of empagliflozin in patients hospitalized for AHF.

Clinical effectiveness and adverse events associated with tolvaptan in patients above 90 years of age with acute decompensated heart failure

With the aging society, the number of very-elderly (VE) patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is increasing. Although tolvaptan is recommended for patients with ADHF in whom conventional diuretic therapy is ineffective, few reports exist on VE patients over 90 years of age. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the clinical effectiveness and adverse events associated with tolvaptan in VE patients with ADHF. From January 2011 to December 2018, we retrospectively studied 180 patients with ADHF who were first administered tolvaptan during hospitalization. Patients were divided into two groups, namely, VE patients who were ≥ 90 years of age (n = 32) and not-VE patients (NVE) who were < 90 years of age (n = 148). The primary effective endpoints were the total urine volume and change in body weight. The safety endpoints evaluated were the incidence of hypernatremia (≥ 150 mEq/L) and worsening renal function (WRF) at any time during hospitalization. The median [interquartile range] patient age was 93 [91-94] years in the VE group and 80 [69-85] years in the NVE group. The mean dose of tolvaptan for the first week of administration was similar between groups (7.9 ± 5.0 mg, VE group; 7.3 ± 3.7 mg, NVE group; p = 0.52). There were no significant differences between the two groups in the total urine volume at 24 h (1901 ± 666 mL, VE group; 2101 ± 1167 mL, NVE group; p = 0.33) and that at 48 h (3707 ± 1274 mL, VE group; 4195 ± 1990 mL, NVE group; p = 0.19) and in the mean change in body weight (- 2.5 ± 2.0 kg, VE group; -2.7 ± 2.4 kg, NVE group; p = 0.70). The median duration of hospitalization was 24 [20-9] and 31 [20-42] days in the VE and NVE groups, respectively (p = 0.67). The incidence of hypernatremia (6.3% (2/32), VE group; 3.4% (5/148), NVE group; p = 0.61) and WRF (25.0% (8/32) VE group; 19.6% (29/148), NVE group; p = 0.31) was similar between the groups. In conclusion, tolvaptan has similar clinical effectiveness in increasing urine volume and decreasing body weight, without increased adverse events, in VE patients with ADHF who were ≥ 90 years of age compared to NVE patients with ADHF.

Short-Term Efficacy and Safety of Tolvaptan in Patients with Left Ventricular Assist Devices

Tolvaptan is an effective therapy for heart failure patients with symptomatic congestion and hyponatremia. The efficacy of its use in patients with continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) is unknown. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical efficacy and safety of tolvaptan in LVAD patients. We retrospectively reviewed medical records of patients who underwent LVAD implantation between January 2014 and August 2018. Among 217 consecutive LVAD patients, tolvaptan was used in 20 patients. Mean age was 46 ± 14 years old and 14 patients were males. The duration of tolvaptan therapy was 4 (interquartile range 1-8) days. Urine volume significantly increased from 2,623 ± 1,109 ml/day before tolvaptan to 4,308 ± 1,432 ml/day during tolvaptan therapy (p < 0.001). Serum sodium increased from 127 ± 3 to 133 ± 3 mEq/L at the end of tolvaptan therapy (p < 0.001). No patients developed hypernatremia (serum sodium >150 mEq/L). The 90-day overall survival following tolvaptan therapy was 89% in both the tolvaptan group and a propensity score-matched non-tolvaptan group (p = 0.918). Survival free of heart failure readmissions was also comparable between the groups (p = 0.751). In conclusion, short-term use of tolvaptan following LVAD implantation is a safe and effective therapy to augment diuresis and improve hyponatremia.

Dual Vasopressin Receptor Antagonism to Improve Congestion in Patients With Acute Heart Failure: Design of the AVANTI Trial

BACKGROUND

Loop diuretics are the main treatment for patients with acute heart failure, but are associated with neurohormonal stimulation and worsening renal function and do not improve long-term outcomes. Antagonists to arginine vasopressin may provide an alternative strategy to avoid these effects. The AVANTI study will investigate the efficacy and safety of pecavaptan, a novel, balanced dual-acting V1a/V2 vasopressin antagonist, both as adjunctive therapy to loop diuretics after admission for acute heart failure, and later as monotherapy.

METHODS AND RESULTS

AVANTI is a double-blind, randomized phase II study in 571 patients hospitalized with acute heart failure and signs of persistent congestion before discharge. In part A, patients will receive either pecavaptan 30 mg/d or placebo with standard of care for 30 days. In part B, eligible patients will continue treatment or receive pecavaptan or diuretics as monotherapy for another 30 days. The primary end points for part A are changes in body weight and serum creatinine; for part B, changes in body weight and blood urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will provide the first evidence that a balanced V1a/V2 antagonist may safely enhance decongestion, both as an adjunct to loop diuretics and as an alternative strategy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03901729.

Tolvaptan vs. furosemide-based diuretic regimens in patients hospitalized for heart failure with hyponatremia (AQUA-AHF)

AIMS

Hyponatremia is associated with poorer outcomes and diuretic response in patients hospitalized for heart failure. This study compared a tolvaptan-based vs. furosemide-based diuretic regimen on short-term clinical responses in hyponatremic acute heart failure.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Prospective, randomized, open-label, parallel-group, single-centre study comparing oral tolvaptan vs. continuous infusion furosemide. Thirty-three subjects requiring hospitalization for acute congestive heart failure, and a serum sodium < 135 mmol/L, were randomized to tolvaptan 30 mg orally daily or furosemide 5 mg/h intravenously for initial 24 h, after which treatments could be escalated. Median daily dose throughout was tolvaptan 30 mg and furosemide 120 mg, with four subjects in each group requiring dose escalation. Urine output and net fluid balance were not different between groups at 24 h or subsequent time points up to 96 h. Changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate were comparable. Cystatin C improved at 24 h with tolvaptan compared with furosemide (-6.4 ± 11.8 vs. 4.1 ± 17.2% change, P = 0.036), but the effect was transient. No significant between group differences were seen for NT-proBNP, plasma renin activity, or urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin:Cr. Serum sodium, as well as copeptin levels, increased with tolvaptan compared with furosemide.

CONCLUSIONS

Oral tolvaptan was associated with similar, but not superior, diuresis compared with intravenous furosemide for acute heart failure with concomitant hyponatremia.

Tolvaptan add-on therapy in patients with acute heart failure: A systematic review and meta-analysis

This study aimed to investigate the short-term efficacy and safety of tolvaptan as an add-on to traditional diuretics in patients with acute heart failure (AHF). The PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were comprehensively searched for all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined AHF patients treated with tolvaptan as a combination therapy with traditional diuretics published on or before December 2, 2019. Efficacy indicators such as improved dyspnea, reduced edema, and changes in urine output and body weight were evaluated. In-hospital mortality and worsening renal function (WRF) were measured as safety indicators. Data from the published literature included in this study were independently extracted by two reviewers. The Cochrane risk of bias tool was used to evaluate the quality of the included RCTs. Twelve RCTs involving 5577 patients admitted for AHF were included. Compared with traditional diuretics alone, add-on tolvaptan significantly relieved dyspnea, reduced weight, increased total urine volume and changes in urine volume from baseline, reduced edema, and increased serum sodium concentration in the short term without increasing the mortality. Most importantly, a low dose of tolvaptan (7.5-15 mg/d) significantly reduced the incidence of WRF, while a high dose (30 mg/d) had the opposite effect. Short-term add-on tolvaptan in hospitalized AHF patients could significantly relieve shortness of breath, reduce body weight, improve edema, and increase urine output and serum sodium concentrations without increasing mortality. The protective effects of add-on tolvaptan against WRF, however, were observed at low doses, but not at high doses.

Reappraisal on pharmacological and mechanical treatments of heart failure

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.

Pharmacological interventions for heart failure in people with chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Approximately half of people with heart failure have chronic kidney disease (CKD). Pharmacological interventions for heart failure in people with CKD have the potential to reduce death (any cause) or hospitalisations for decompensated heart failure. However, these interventions are of uncertain benefit and may increase the risk of harm, such as hypotension and electrolyte abnormalities, in those with CKD.

OBJECTIVES

This review aims to look at the benefits and harms of pharmacological interventions for HF (i.e., antihypertensive agents, inotropes, and agents that may improve the heart performance indirectly) in people with HF and CKD.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Kidney and Transplant Register of Studies through 12 September 2019 in consultation with an Information Specialist and using search terms relevant to this review. Studies in the Register are identified through searches of CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE, conference proceedings, the International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP) Search Portal and ClinicalTrials.gov.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials of any pharmacological intervention for acute or chronic heart failure, among people of any age with chronic kidney disease of at least three months duration.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two authors independently screened the records to identify eligible studies and extracted data on the following dichotomous outcomes: death, hospitalisations, worsening heart failure, worsening kidney function, hyperkalaemia, and hypotension. We used random effects meta-analysis to estimate treatment effects, which we expressed as a risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). We assessed the risk of bias using the Cochrane tool. We applied the GRADE methodology to rate the certainty of evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

One hundred and twelve studies met our selection criteria: 15 were studies of adults with CKD; 16 studies were conducted in the general population but provided subgroup data for people with CKD; and 81 studies included individuals with CKD, however, data for this subgroup were not provided. The risk of bias in all 112 studies was frequently high or unclear. Of the 31 studies (23,762 participants) with data on CKD patients, follow-up ranged from three months to five years, and study size ranged from 16 to 2916 participants. In total, 26 studies (19,612 participants) reported disaggregated and extractable data on at least one outcome of interest for our review and were included in our meta-analyses. In acute heart failure, the effects of adenosine A1-receptor antagonists, dopamine, nesiritide, or serelaxin on death, hospitalisations, worsening heart failure or kidney function, hyperkalaemia, hypotension or quality of life were uncertain due to sparse data or were not reported. In chronic heart failure, the effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) (4 studies, 5003 participants: RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.02; I2 = 78%; low certainty evidence), aldosterone antagonists (2 studies, 34 participants: RR 0.61 95% CI 0.06 to 6.59; very low certainty evidence), and vasopressin receptor antagonists (RR 1.26, 95% CI 0.55 to 2.89; 2 studies, 1840 participants; low certainty evidence) on death (any cause) were uncertain. Treatment with beta-blockers may reduce the risk of death (any cause) (4 studies, 3136 participants: RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.79; I2 = 0%; moderate certainty evidence). Treatment with ACEi or ARB (2 studies, 1368 participants: RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.43 to 1.90; I2 = 97%; very low certainty evidence) had uncertain effects on hospitalisation for heart failure, as treatment estimates were consistent with either benefit or harm. Treatment with beta-blockers may decrease hospitalisation for heart failure (3 studies, 2287 participants: RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.43 to 1.05; I2 = 87%; low certainty evidence). Aldosterone antagonists may increase the risk of hyperkalaemia compared to placebo or no treatment (3 studies, 826 participants: RR 2.91, 95% CI 2.03 to 4.17; I2 = 0%; low certainty evidence). Renin inhibitors had uncertain risks of hyperkalaemia (2 studies, 142 participants: RR 0.86, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.49; I2 = 0%; very low certainty). We were unable to estimate whether treatment with sinus node inhibitors affects the risk of hyperkalaemia, as there were few studies and meta-analysis was not possible. Hyperkalaemia was not reported for the CKD subgroup in studies investigating other therapies. The effects of ACEi or ARB, or aldosterone antagonists on worsening heart failure or kidney function, hypotension, or quality of life were uncertain due to sparse data or were not reported. Effects of anti-arrhythmic agents, digoxin, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, renin inhibitors, sinus node inhibitors, vasodilators, and vasopressin receptor antagonists were very uncertain due to the paucity of studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

The effects of pharmacological interventions for heart failure in people with CKD are uncertain and there is insufficient evidence to inform clinical practice. Study data for treatment outcomes in patients with heart failure and CKD are sparse despite the potential impact of kidney impairment on the benefits and harms of treatment. Future research aimed at analysing existing data in general population HF studies to explore the effect in subgroups of patients with CKD, considering stage of disease, may yield valuable insights for the management of people with HF and CKD.