Levosimendan (Synonyms: OR 1259, (R)Simendan)

Levosimendan (OR1259) is a calcium sensitiser used in the management of acutely decompensated congestive heart failure.

Levosimendan (OR1259) is a calcium sensitiser used in the management of acutely decompensated congestive heart failure. Levosimendan (OR1259) is an inodilator indicated for the short-term treatment of acutely decompensated severe chronic heart failure, and in situations where conventional therapy is not considered adequate. Levosimendan (OR1259) has shown preliminary positive effects in a range of conditions requiring inotropic support, including right ventricular failure, cardiogenic shock, septic shock, and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy[1]. The cardiovascular effects of Levosimendan (OR1259) are exerted via more than an isolated drug-receptor interaction, and involve favorable energetic and neurohormonal changes that are unique in comparison to other types of inodilators[2]. Levosimendan (OR1259) might reduce mortality in cardiac surgery and cardiology settings of adult patients[3].

References:
[1]. Nieminen, M.S., et al., Levosimendan: current data, clinical use and future development. Heart Lung Vessel, 2013. 5(4): p. 227-245.
[2]. Papp, Z., et al., Levosimendan: molecular mechanisms and clinical implications: consensus of experts on the mechanisms of action of levosimendan. Int J Cardiol, 2012. 159(2): p. 82-7.
[3]. Landoni, G., et al., Effects of levosimendan on mortality and hospitalization. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies. Crit Care Med, 2012. 40(2): p. 634-46.