Drug Insight: Aldosterone-receptor antagonists in heart failure - The journey continues

Srinivasa R. Kalidindi, Wilson H. Tang, Gary S. Francis

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

16 Scopus citations

Abstract

Aldosterone is an important mediator in the pathogenesis of heart failure, and increased plasma aldosterone levels are associated with a poor prognosis. Aldosterone-receptor blocking drugs can slow the progression of left ventricular remodeling and reduce the occurrence of sudden cardiac death. Two widely publicized clinical trials provide data demonstrating survival benefits with spironolactone and eplerenone in chronic and postinfarction heart failure. The publication of these trials has generated widespread enthusiasm for spironolactone and eplerenone, leading to the more frequent and sometimes unbridled use of these drugs in the medical community. We herein describe the likely mechanisms of action of aldosterone-receptor antagonists, discuss the existing clinical evidence supporting their use, and provide practical advice on their use in the management of patients with heart failure.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)368-378
Number of pages11
JournalNature Clinical Practice Cardiovascular Medicine
Volume4
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1 2007

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