Effects of Carvedilol Therapy for Plasma Brain Natriuretic Peptide and Heart Function in Patients with Diastolic Heart Failure

Objective To assess the effects of carvedilol treatment for plasma brain natriuretic peptide and heart function in patients with diastolic heart failure(DHF).Methods 46 patients with DHF were randomly divided into carvediolo treatment group(n=23),control group(n=23),and both groups were given conventional treatment,including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors,calcium channel antagonists and diuretics.For treatment group,carvedilol table was administered(12.5mg/day),and the dosage gradually increased 50mg/d.The treatment lasted for 4 weeks,and then plasma brain natriuretic peptide(BNP) concentration and left ventricular ejection fraction were observed after 8-week follow-up.Results After 8-week follow-up,treatment group showed significant decrease in BNP compared with control group(P0.01),and significant increase in left ventricular ejection fraction(P0.01).No serious adverse reactions occurred.Conclusion Carvedilol can significantly reduce plasma BNP level in patients with DHF;improve heart function as a safe and effective measurement for DHF.