Nesiritide for the treatment of decompensated heart failure.

Heart failure is the leading cause of hospitalizations in the USA, and is associated with significant morbidity, mortality and resource utilization. Established therapies for chronic heart failure have been shown to improve outcomes, but treatment for decompensated heart failure remains largely empiric. Nesiritide (Natrecor) is a synthetic analog of human B-type natriuretic peptide, a peptide released by the ventricular myocardium in response to increased wall tension. The physiologic effects of human B-type natriuretic peptide include natriuresis, vasodilation and neurohormonal modulation. In clinical trials, nesiritide has been shown to decrease cardiac filling pressures, increase cardiac index, and improve the clinical status of patients with acute decompensated heart failure. Compared with other available intravenous agents for heart failure, nesiritide is effective, generally well-tolerated with few adverse effects, and does not require invasive monitoring during administration. Nesiritide has proven to be an effective new treatment for patients with decompensated heart failure.