Hemodynamic effects of a single intravenous infusion of prostaglandin E1 in patients with clinically moderate to severe chronic heart failure.

In a placebo-controlled, double-blind study, we investigated the hemodynamic effects of a single infusion of prostaglandin E ( 1 ) (PGE ( 1 ); 60 microg infused over a period of 2 hours, the unit dosage used in courses of treatment for peripheral occlusive arterial disease) in 20 patients with moderate to severe chronic heart failure (New York Heart Association functional class II or III). Ejection fraction before therapy was less than 55%, and average age was 58.4 +/- 10 years in these clinically stable patients. Nineteen patients had coronary heart disease and one patient had had myocarditis underlying heart failure. Hemodynamic data were obtained by right- and left-heart catheterization and by Doppler echocardiography. Blood pressure and pulse rate were measured manually. Intravenous infusion of 60 microg PGE ( 1 ) over a period of 2 hours did not significantly alter contractility or hemodynamics. Dp/dt max, dp/dt max/p and dp/dt DP40, measures of left ventricular contractility determined with a catheter-tip manometer, did not differ significantly over time in PGE ( 1 ) -treated patients and those who received placebo. Other measures also failed to reveal PGE ( 1 ) -induced myocardial effects. We conclude that it is safe to administer PGE ( 1 ) to patients with peripheral occlusive arterial disease irrespective of heart failure.