Calcium sensitizer levosimendan and its use in acute heart failure and related conditions

Abstract

The principal actions of levosimendan at therapeutic concentrations are as follows: Calcium sensitization of myocytes Arterial and venous dilatation mediated via the opening of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-sensitive potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle. This combination of actions endows levosimendan with the properties of both an energy-efficient inotrope and a balanced vasodilator. In addition, levosimendan exerts antiischemic and cardioprotective effects via potassium channels in cardiomyoctes. © 2008 Springer-Verlag London.