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Published on: September 17, 2015

The acute and chronic effects of losartan in heart failure

I Crozier1, H Ikram

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Christchurch Hospital, New Zealand.

Journal of Hypertension. Supplement : Official Journal of the International Society of Hypertension
|July 1, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Losartan, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, demonstrated favorable and lasting hemodynamic improvements in heart failure patients. This study suggests potential benefits for managing heart failure symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Losartan is an oral, non-peptide angiotensin II receptor antagonist targeting the AT1 receptor.
  • It is hypothesized to offer hemodynamic benefits in heart failure, comparable to ACE inhibitors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the hemodynamic effects of losartan in patients with heart failure.
  • To assess the acute and sustained impact of losartan on cardiovascular parameters.

Main Methods:

  • A single dose of losartan was administered to heart failure patients.
  • A 12-week study assessed the persistent effects of losartan in similar patients.

Main Results:

  • A single dose reduced systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure, increasing angiotensin II and decreasing aldosterone.
  • After 12 weeks, sustained reductions in systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure were observed.
  • Pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and heart rate decreased, while cardiac index increased with sustained administration.

Conclusions:

  • Losartan exhibits favorable and persistent hemodynamic effects in heart failure patients.
  • Further research is needed to establish the definitive role of losartan in heart failure management.
Abstract

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