A Phase II Trial to Assess Hemodynamic Effects of Istaroxime in Pts With Worsening HF and Reduced LV Systolic Function

Congestive heart failure is one of the most common cardiovascular conditions and it is presently reaching epidemic proportions. The prevalence of chronic heart failure has risen specifically as a result of the increased longevity and longer survival after myocardial infarction. In 2003, over one million hospitalization with a primary diagnosis of heart failure occurred in the United States of America, and a similar number has been reported in Europe, too. At present, approximately 5 million Americans are estimated to suffer of this syndrome and the number is expected to continue to increase with the increase and aging of the population. Despite advances in treatment, the mortality remains high in U.S.A. as in Europe, with nearly three hundred thousands patients dying of CHF as the primary or contributory cause each year. The total number of hospital admissions approaches 3 million yearly when HF is listed as a primary or secondary diagnosis. Although these patients have a relatively low mortality during the hospitalization (less than 4%), the readmission rates within 60 days of discharge range from 20 to 30% and mortality within 60 days of discharge is 5 - 10%. The primary aim of acute treatment of worsening CHF is to alleviate the symptoms of congestion and edema, improve the hemodynamic profile, and preserve renal function without causing myocardial injury. Improved hemodynamics usually results in relief of primary symptoms like dyspnea and edema and in a consequent improved sense of wellbeing and mental status. The improvement in hemodynamics may persist after the pharmacological interventions used in the acute phase are withdrawn. The need in this setting is to decrease the filling pressures (RA pressure and PCWP), increase cardiac output, without increasing the heart rate and inducing/worsening atrial or ventricular arrhythmias. In addition, the agent should improve diastolic function, modulate the exaggerated neurohormonal responses to CHF and preserve/protect the viable but non contractile myocardium (e.g.: the hibernated myocardium). The agent should also facilitate the earlier start of life-saving therapies (e.g. beta - blockers).Pre-clinical data on Istaroxime show that this drug increases contractility without increasing heart rate and oxygen consumption; furthermore it is improving diastolic dysfunction and it not causing vasodilatation.