Administration of sulmazol in low-output states following cardiac surgery

Sulmazol (AR-L 115BS), a phenylimidazopyridine derivative, which combines positive inotropic and vasodilating properties, was administered to nine patients who had a low cardiac output state (cardiac index below 2.0 L/min/m2) within 24 hours after cardiac surgery for valvular replacement (eight patients) or septal repair after myocardial infarction (one patient). Sulmazol, administered as a 60-minute infusion of 1.8 mg/min, resulted in significant increases in cardiac output and cardiac work, associated with significant decreases in cardiac filling pressures. Arterial pressure did not change notably, and systemic vascular resistance decreased significantly. A small but significant increase in heart rate was also observed. By its combined inotropic and vasodilating properties, sulmazol can be helpful in the management of low-output states after cardiac surgery.