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Published on: October 3, 2019
Drug-induced heart failure.
Carleton B Maxwell1, Antoine T Jenkins
1Department of Pharmacy, Carolinas Medical Center, 1000 Blythe Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28232, USA. carleton.maxwell@carolinashealthcare.org
Many medications can cause or worsen heart failure (HF). Healthcare providers should monitor patients for cardiovascular effects, especially when using drugs linked to HF or other cardiac issues.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Medications are essential in modern healthcare but can pose risks.
- Heart failure (HF) is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding drug-induced HF is crucial for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review published evidence on drugs causing or exacerbating heart failure (HF).
- To discuss precautions and management strategies for drug-induced HF in clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted.
- Reports of new-onset HF and HF exacerbations linked to medication use were identified.
- Data from controlled clinical trials, postmarketing surveillance, and observational studies were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Established HF causes include thiazolidinediones and older chemotherapy agents.
- Numerous other drugs, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors and biological response modifiers, are implicated.
- Newer drugs like dronedarone, itraconazole, trastuzumab, lapatinib, and bevacizumab have been linked to serious cardiac effects.
Conclusions:
- A wide array of medications are associated with drug-induced HF.
- Patients on implicated medications require vigilant monitoring for cardiovascular adverse effects.
- Early detection and management are key to mitigating risks.
Related Concept Videos
Heart Failure I: Introduction
Heart Failure Drugs: Inotropic Agents
Heart Failure Drugs: Inhibitors of Renin-Angiotensin System
Heart Failure Drugs: Diuretics
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure
Heart Failure II: Pathophysiology
