Acute hemodynamic and hormonal effects of MK-521 in congestive heart failure.

The acute hemodynamic and hormonal effects of the oral angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor MK-521 were assessed over a period of 96 hours in 6 patients with heart failure. This compound is the lysine analogue of enalapril diacid (MK-422) and is biologically active following absorption. Dosages ranging from 1.25 mg to 5.0 mg were administered on days 1 and 3, followed by 48 hours intensive hemodynamic observation. Marked reduction in mean arterial pressure (25.2%), pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (47.3%), and systemic vascular resistance (34.5%) was observed. Arterial blood was sampled at frequent intervals for angiotensin I (AI), angiotensin II (AII), plasma renin activity, renin substrate, plasma aldosterone, urinary aldosterone, ACE activity, and serum drug levels. Right atrial blood was sampled simultaneously for AI and AII thus permitting reliable assessment of the degree of pulmonary conversion to angiotensin II. Prolonged inhibition of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system was confirmed and corresponded to drug concentration. The results indicate hemodynamic efficacy and potent ACE inhibition over a period exceeding 24 hours.