New Inotropic Agent-Levosimendan / 대한마취과학회지

ABSTRACT

Several clinical studies suggest substantial limitations of currently available positive inotropic substances, including beta1-adrenoceptor agonists and phosphodiesterase III inhibitors. Levosimendan, a myofilament calcium sensitizer with inotropic effects, increases myocardial performance without substantial changes in oxygen consumption and with neutral effects on heart rhythm. In addition, levosimendan has vasodilatory effects that are achieved by stimulation of adenosine triphosphate-dependent potassium channels. This review article briefly discusses the pharmacology of levosimendan and evaluates current available evidence to assess the safety and efficacy of levosimendan.