Changes in systolic time intervals: A non-invasive marker for the haemodynamic effects of sumatriptan

Abstract

Aims: This study assessed the use of systolic time intervals (STI) as a potential non-invasive marker of the haemodynamic effects of sumatriptan, a 5HT1 receptor agonist. Methods: Twenty-six patients undergoing diagnostic cardiac catheterization participated. STIs were derived from haemodynamic pressure tracings at baseline, following placebo injection and following either subcutaneous (n = 18) or intravenous injection (n = 8) of sumatriptan. Results: Sumatriptan (i.v. or s.c.) was associated with significant increases in mean arterial pressure (95% C.I. 9,14 mmHg, P = 0.0001), total electromechanical systole (95% C.I. 8,36 ms, P < 0.0001), pre-ejection period (95% C.I. 8,21 ms, P = 0.0001) and left ventricular ejection time (95% C.I. 2,12 ms, P = 0.004). Conclusion: STI responses were consistent with sumatriptan-induced changes in afterload. In summary, the measurement of STIs is a potential non-invasive method of investigating the influence of serotonergic compounds on the cardiovascular system.