Levosimendan (CAS 141505-33-1) Suppliers and Product Information

Levosimendan is a calcium sensitizer and inodilator used in the treatment of acute heart failure. It increases cardiac contractility by binding to troponin C and activates potassium channels, causing vasodilation. It also has potential as an anti-HIV-1 agent and cardioprotective properties.

Levosimendan is marketed under the brand name Simdax by Orion Pharmaceutica (Finland). It is administered intravenously for acute heart failure or refractory symptoms of chronic heart failure when conventional treatments are insufficient.

Frequently Asked Questions about Levosimendan

Q: What is the primary use of Levosimendan?

A: Levosimendan is primarily used for the treatment of acute heart failure or refractory symptoms of chronic heart failure when conventional treatments are not sufficient.

Q: How does Levosimendan work?

A: Levosimendan works as a calcium sensitizer, increasing cardiac contractility by binding to troponin C. It also activates potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle, causing vasodilation and reducing cardiac workload.

Q: What are the advantages of Levosimendan over other inotropic agents?

A: Unlike other cardiotonic drugs, Levosimendan can produce positive inotropic effects without prolonging myocardial relaxation or increasing the incidence of malignant arrhythmias. It has shown a lower risk of mortality in heart failure patients compared to placebo and dobutamine.

Q: Are there any potential new applications for Levosimendan?

A: Yes, Levosimendan has shown potential as an anti-HIV-1 agent, inhibiting both acute HIV-1 replication and reactivation of latent HIV-1 proviruses. It is also being evaluated for chronic treatment of congestive heart failure.