[Hemodynamic effects of various doses of a new inotropic: amrinoma]

The hemodinamic effects of Amrinone, bipiridine derivate with positive inotropic effects in animals, were studied on eight patients under right and left heart catheterization. The cardiac index, stroke volume, dP/dt and stroke work index were increased; the pulmonary pressure and the left ventricle end diastolic pressure were decreased all with statistical significant values. There were no changes in mean aortic pressure. These effects are mainly due to an increase in contractility and, partially, to vasodilation and tachycardia. The intrinsic mechanism of action of this compound is not known. Its place in cardiac therapy must be established with additional clinical investigations.