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Altizide

This article discusses the use of Altizide, a medication being studied in clinical trials for patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The research aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Altizide, in combination with other drugs, in improving outcomes for individuals with this specific type of heart condition.

Table of Contents

What is ALTIZIDE?

ALTIZIDE is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs). It is often used in combination with another drug called spironolactone[1]. ALTIZIDE is also known by its synonym, althiazide. This combination is being studied for its potential benefits in treating certain heart conditions.

Medical Conditions Treated by ALTIZIDE

The primary medical condition that ALTIZIDE is being investigated for is heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)[1]. This is a type of heart failure where the heart’s ability to pump blood is preserved, but it has trouble filling with blood properly. It’s important to understand that while ALTIZIDE is being studied for this condition, its use may not be limited to only this type of heart failure.

How ALTIZIDE Works

ALTIZIDE, in combination with spironolactone, works by blocking the effects of a hormone called aldosterone. This hormone can cause the body to retain salt and water, which can be problematic for people with heart failure. By blocking aldosterone, ALTIZIDE helps the body get rid of excess fluid, which can relieve some of the symptoms of heart failure[1].

Dosage and Administration

According to the clinical trial information, the maximum daily dose of ALTIZIDE (in combination with spironolactone) is 50 mg[1]. The medication is taken orally, which means by mouth. The maximum treatment period mentioned in the trial is 120 days, but this may vary depending on individual patient needs and doctor’s recommendations.

Who Can Take ALTIZIDE?

Based on the clinical trial criteria, ALTIZIDE may be suitable for patients who meet the following conditions[1]:

  • Age 50 years or older
  • Diagnosed with stable heart failure
  • Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 40% or higher
  • Elevated levels of certain heart failure markers in the blood (NT-proBNP or BNP)
  • Regular use of loop diuretics (another type of heart medication)
  • New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class II-IV heart failure symptoms

However, it’s crucial to note that these are clinical trial criteria, and the actual eligibility for ALTIZIDE treatment should be determined by a healthcare professional.

Current Clinical Trial: SPIRRIT-HFpEF

ALTIZIDE is currently being studied in a clinical trial called SPIRRIT-HFpEF (Spironolactone Initiation Registry Randomized Interventional Trial in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction)[1]. This trial aims to assess whether adding spironolactone or eplerenone (another similar medication) to standard care can reduce hospitalizations due to heart failure or deaths from cardiovascular causes in patients with HFpEF.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While the clinical trial data doesn’t provide specific information about side effects, it’s important to be aware of potential risks associated with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists like ALTIZIDE[1]:

  • High potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia)
  • Low blood pressure
  • Kidney problems
  • Interactions with other medications

The trial excludes patients with certain conditions, which may indicate potential risks or contraindications[1]:

  • Chronic liver disease
  • Very low kidney function (eGFR less than 30 ml/min/1.73m2)
  • Current dialysis treatment
  • High potassium levels (above 5.0 mmol/L)
  • Pregnancy or potential for pregnancy
  • Use of lithium medication

It’s crucial to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting or during treatment with ALTIZIDE.

Aspect Details
Study Drug Altizide (in combination with spironolactone or eplerenone)
Condition Studied Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)
Primary Objective Reduce heart failure hospitalizations and cardiovascular deaths
Key Eligibility Criteria Age ≥50, LVEF ≥40%, elevated natriuretic peptides, regular loop diuretic use
Administration Oral, max 50 mg daily, up to 120 days
Study Design Registry-based Randomized Clinical Trial (RRCT)

FAQ

  • What is the main purpose of the clinical trial involving Altizide? The main purpose is to assess whether adding Altizide (along with spironolactone or eplerenone) to standard care can reduce the rate of heart failure hospitalizations or cardiovascular deaths in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
  • Who is eligible to participate in this clinical trial? Eligible participants are typically 50 years or older, have stable heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (LVEF ≥40%), elevated natriuretic peptide levels, regular use of loop diuretics, and are classified as NYHA Class II-IV.
  • What are some exclusion criteria for the trial? Some exclusion criteria include having an ejection fraction below 40%, chronic liver disease, primary valve disease as the main cause of symptoms, significant chronic pulmonary disease, or an eGFR below 30 ml/min/1.73m2.
  • How is Altizide administered in the trial? Altizide is administered orally, with a maximum daily dose of 50 mg. The treatment period can last up to 120 days.
  • Are there any other medications being studied alongside Altizide? Yes, the trial also involves studying spironolactone and eplerenone in combination with Altizide for the treatment of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Ongoing Clinical Trials on Altizide

  • Study of stopping heart failure medications in patients with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy who responded very well to cardiac resynchronization therapy

    Recruiting

    1 1 1 1
    Investigated drugs:
    Spain

  • Study of eplerenone in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction who also have severe chronic kidney disease

    Not yet recruiting

    1 1 1
    Investigated diseases:
    Investigated drugs:
    Sweden

  • Study of spironolactone and eplerenone in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)

    Not recruiting

    1 1 1 1
    Investigated drugs:
    Sweden

Glossary

  • Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF): A type of heart failure where the heart's ability to pump blood is normal, but it has trouble filling with blood due to stiffness of the heart muscle.
  • Ejection fraction (EF): The percentage of blood that leaves the heart each time it contracts. In this study, preserved ejection fraction is defined as 40% or higher.
  • Natriuretic peptide: A hormone produced by the heart that increases in response to heart stress. Elevated levels can indicate heart failure.
  • Loop diuretics: Medications that help the body get rid of extra fluid and sodium through urine, often used in heart failure treatment.
  • NYHA Class: New York Heart Association classification system for heart failure, ranging from Class I (no symptoms) to Class IV (severe symptoms even at rest).
  • Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA): A type of medication that blocks the effects of certain hormones on the heart and blood vessels, often used in heart failure treatment.
  • eGFR: Estimated glomerular filtration rate, a measure of kidney function. In this study, participants need an eGFR of 30 ml/min/1.73m2 or higher.
  • Cardiovascular (CV) death: Death caused by heart or blood vessel problems.

References

  1. http://clinicaltrials.eu/trial/study-on-spironolactone-and-eplerenone-for-patients-with-heart-failure-with-preserved-ejection-fraction/