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The effect of valsartan on left ventricular myocardial functions in hypertensive patients with left ventricular

Nagehan Kucukler1, Ibrahim H Kurt, Caner Topaloglu

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Mustafa Kemal University School of Medicine, Antioch, Turkey. drnagehan@gmail.com

Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine (Hagerstown, Md.)
|February 7, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Valsartan therapy significantly improved cardiac function in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). The drug reduced blood pressure and LVH, enhancing myocardial contractility and relaxation.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology
  • Hypertension Management

Background:

  • Hypertension-induced left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) impairs cardiac function.
  • Angiotensin receptor blockers are known to reduce LV mass and improve diastolic function.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effect of angiotensin receptor blockage on midwall mechanics and myocardial dynamics in hypertensive patients with LVH.
  • To assess the cardioprotective effects of valsartan beyond blood pressure reduction.

Main Methods:

  • 38 untreated hypertensive patients with LVH received valsartan (80-160 mg) for 6 months.
  • Left ventricular midwall mechanics and tissue Doppler velocities were measured at baseline and study end.

Main Results:

  • Valsartan significantly reduced blood pressure (152/92 to 131/83 mmHg) and left ventricular mass index (135 to 114 g/m²).
  • Midwall fractional shortening and myocardial tissue velocities increased, indicating improved contractility.
  • Circumferential end-systolic wall stress and E/Em ratio decreased, signifying enhanced relaxation and reduced diastolic dysfunction.

Conclusions:

  • Valsartan demonstrates significant blood pressure-lowering effects.
  • The drug promotes regression of LVH and improves left ventricular myocardial contractility and relaxation.
  • Valsartan offers cardioprotective benefits in hypertensive patients with LVH.
Abstract

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