Positive cardiac inotropic effect
Positive Cardiac Inotropic Effect
Cardiac inotropes are drugs used to help treat those with heart failure. They also help treat those who suffer from a weakened heart muscle due to conditions such as coronary artery disease and cardiomyopathy. Positive inotropes work by increasing the contractive force of the heart muscle, thus improving its ability to pump blood throughout the body.
A positive inotropic effect is achieved by either increasing the supply of calcium ions to the cardiac muscle cells, which helps them contract, or by increasing the sensitivity of the cells to the calcium ions already present in the cell.
Positive cardiac inotropic effect includes improving:
- Contractility of the heart muscle
- Heart rate
- Cardiac output (the amount of blood pumped by the heart in a given amount of time)
- Stroke volume (the amount of blood pumped with each beat of the heart)
Positive inotropes can improve the function of the heart, allowing it to pump blood more effectively. They can also reduce the workload of the heart, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. This can help improve the quality of life in those suffering from heart failure.
Positive cardiac inotropes are commonly prescribed in the management of heart failure and other types of heart disease, and those with weakened heart muscle. Because there are risks associated with these drugs, it is important to always consult with your doctor before taking any of these drugs. Your doctor will arrange follow-up monitoring to check for any side effects.