Cor Vasa 2009, 51(6):419-424 | DOI: 10.33678/cor.2009.107

Modulating the levels of circulating BNP by therapeutic approaches for heart failure

Ivan Málek^*, Markéta Hegarová

Klinika kardiologie, Institut klinické a experimentální medicíny, Praha, Česká republika

Medical therapy is one of the mainstays of treatment of heart failure. Agents that have been shown to be the most effective in this respect are those affecting major neurohormonal systems, i.e., angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), aldosterone antagonists, and beta-blockers.
Although treatment of heart failure is governed by generally established rules derived from the outcomes of large trials, it should still be individualized and should be adjusted during the course of the disease depending on the current status. Another major consideration is the correct indication and timing of non-pharmacological intervention, cardiac resynchronization therapy and cardiac surgery in particular. These facts raise the question whether therapy could be optimized with the help of determination and monitoring of bio-markers, most importantly B-natriuretic peptides (BNP and NT-proBNP). On the other hand, it is critical to determine the way BNP levels are -affected by therapeutic procedures, which is also a prerequisite for correct interpretation of the results of assessment. This paper provides an overview of some therapeutic procedures as related to changes in serum BNP levels.

Keywords: Heart failure; Treatment; B-natriuretic peptide

Published: June 1, 2009  Show citation