Colchicine's Role in Cardiovascular Disease Management

Colchicine-an anti-inflammatory alkaloid-has assumed an important role in the management of cardiovascular inflammation ≈3500 years after its first medicinal use in ancient Egypt. Primarily used in high doses for the treatment of acute gout flares during the 20th century, research in the early 21st century demonstrated that low-dose colchicine effectively treats acute gout attacks, lowers the risk of recurrent pericarditis, and can add to secondary prevention of major adverse cardiovascular events. As the first Food and Drug Administration-approved targeted anti-inflammatory cardiovascular therapy, colchicine currently has a unique role in the management of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The safe use of colchicine requires careful monitoring for drug-drug interactions, changes in kidney and liver function, and counseling regarding gastrointestinal upset. Future research should elucidate the mechanisms of anti-inflammatory effects of colchicine relevant to atherosclerosis, the potential role of colchicine in primary prevention, in other cardiometabolic conditions, colchicine's safety in cardiovascular patients, and opportunities for individualizing colchicine therapy using clinical and molecular diagnostics.

Trends in Oral Anticoagulant Use and Individual Expenditures Across the United States from 2014 to 2020

BACKGROUND

Landmark clinical trials have expended the indications for the direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), but contemporary data on usage and expenditure patterns are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess annual trends in oral anticoagulant (OAC) utilization and expenditure across the United States (US) from 2014 to 2020.

METHODS

We utilized the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) to study the trends of use and expenditures of warfarin, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, and edoxaban between 2014 and 2020 in the US. Survey respondents reported OAC use within the past year, which was verified against pharmacy records. Payment information was obtained from the respondent's pharmacy and was categorized as third-party or self/out-of-pocket. Potential indications and medical conditions of interest for OAC therapy were identified from respondent-reported medical conditions. We estimated the national number of OAC users and total expenditures across age, sex, race, ethnicity, insurance, and medical condition subgroups. Trends of OAC users' characteristics, expenditure, and number of prescriptions were evaluated using the Mann-Kendall test for trends.

RESULTS

Between 2014 and 2020, the number of warfarin users decreased from 3.8 million (70% of all OAC users) to 2.2 million (p = 0.007) [29% of all OAC users], while the number of DOAC users increased from 1.6 million (30% of all OAC users) to 5.4 million (p = 0.003) [70% of all OAC users]. The total expenditure of OACs in the US increased from $3.4 billion in 2014 to $17.8 billion in 2020 (p = 0.003), which was driven by the increase in DOAC expenditures (p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

DOACs have replaced warfarin as the preferred OAC in the US. The increased costs associated with DOAC use may decline when generic formulations are approved.

Management of direct oral anticoagulant drug interactions in hospitalized patients

Moderate-strong CYP3A4 or Pgp inhibitors and inducers alter direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) pharmacokinetics. Whether the presence of a DOAC drug-drug interaction (DDI) prompts in- hospital changes in management remains unknown. We identified all hospitalized patients at our institution who were admitted with a clinically relevant DOAC DDI from 01/2021 to 06/2021. Clinically relevant DOAC DDIs were defined as those listed in the prescribing information or FDA CYP3A4/Pgp inhibitors clinical indexes. We assessed the prevalence of DOAC DDIs and categorized their management as: drug stopped, drug held, or drug continued. For drugs that were continued we assessed whether the dose of the DOAC or interacting drug was increased, decreased or unchanged during the admission. We ascertained the number of DOAC DDIs that prompted an automated prescribing alert in our electronic health record (EHR). Finally, we conducted a logistic regression model to compare users of DOACs with DDI who had their regimen adjusted versus those without adjustments, focusing on outcomes of rehospitalization and death, adjusting for age and gender. Among 3,725 hospitalizations with a DOAC admission order, 197 (5%) had a clinically relevant DOAC DDI. The DOAC and the interacting drug were continued at discharge for 124 (63%) hospitalizations. The most frequent adjustments were stopping the interacting drug (73%) and stopping the DOAC (15%). Only 7 (4%) of DOAC DDIs prompted an EHR alert. The adjusted odds ratios for rehospitalizations and death, respectively, among patients whose regimens were adjusted compared to those whose were not, were 1.29 (95% CI, 0.67 to 2.48; P = 0.44) and 1.88 (95% CI, 0.91 to 3.89; P = 0.09). Clinically relevant DDIs with DOACs occur infrequently among hospitalized patients and usually are managed without stopping the DOAC. The clinical impact of such DDIs and subsequent adjustments on thrombotic and hemorrhagic outcomes requires further investigation.

Plasma Ferritin Levels, Incident Heart Failure, and Cardiac Structure and Function: The ARIC Study

BACKGROUND

Whether iron deficiency contributes to incident heart failure (HF) and cardiac dysfunction has important implications given the prevalence of iron deficiency and the availability of several therapeutics for iron repletion.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to estimate the associations of plasma ferritin level with incident HF overall, HF phenotypes, and cardiac structure and function measures in older adults.

METHODS

Participants in the ongoing, longitudinal ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities) study who were free of prevalent HF and anemia were studied. The associations of plasma ferritin levels with incident HF overall and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression models. Linear regression models estimated the cross-sectional associations of plasma ferritin with echocardiographic measures of cardiac structure and function.

RESULTS

The cohort included 3,472 individuals with a mean age of 75 ± 5 years (56% women, 14% Black individuals). In fully adjusted models, lower ferritin was associated with higher risk for incident HF overall (HR: 1.20 [95% CI: 1.08-1.34] per 50% lower ferritin level) and higher risk for incident HFpEF (HR: 1.28 [95% CI: 1.09-1.50]). Associations with incident HFrEF were not statistically significant. Lower ferritin levels were associated with higher E/e' ratio and higher pulmonary artery systolic pressure after adjustment for demographics and HF risk factors but not with measures of left ventricular structure or systolic function.

CONCLUSIONS

Among older adults without prevalent HF or anemia, lower plasma ferritin level is associated with a higher risk for incident HF, HFpEF, and higher measures of left ventricular filling pressure.

Large scale plasma proteomics identifies novel proteins and protein networks associated with heart failure development

Heart failure (HF) causes substantial morbidity and mortality but its pathobiology is incompletely understood. The proteome is a promising intermediate phenotype for discovery of novel mechanisms. We measured 4877 plasma proteins in 13,900 HF-free individuals across three analysis sets with diverse age, geography, and HF ascertainment to identify circulating proteins and protein networks associated with HF development. Parallel analyses in Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study participants in mid-life and late-life and in Trøndelag Health Study participants identified 37 proteins consistently associated with incident HF independent of traditional risk factors. Mendelian randomization supported causal effects of 10 on HF, HF risk factors, or left ventricular size and function, including matricellular (e.g. SPON1, MFAP4), senescence-associated (FSTL3, IGFBP7), and inflammatory (SVEP1, CCL15, ITIH3) proteins. Protein co-regulation network analyses identified 5 modules associated with HF risk, two of which were influenced by genetic variants that implicated trans hotspots within the VTN and CFH genes.

MMP-2 Associates With Incident Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation: The ARIC Study

BACKGROUND

MMP (matrix metalloproteinase)-2 participates in extracellular matrix regulation and may be involved in heart failure (HF), atrial fibrillation (AF), and coronary heart disease.

METHODS

Among the 4693 ARIC study (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) participants (mean age, 75±5 years; 42% women) without prevalent HF, multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate associations of plasma MMP-2 levels with incident HF, HF with preserved ejection fraction (≥50%), HF with reduced ejection fraction (<50%), AF, and coronary heart disease. Mediation of the association between MMP-2 and HF was assessed by censoring participants who developed AF or coronary heart disease before HF. Multivariable linear regression models were used to assess associations of MMP-2 with measures of left ventricular and left atrial structure and function.

RESULTS

Compared with the 3 lower quartiles, the highest MMP-2 quartile associated with greater risk of incident HF overall (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.48 [95% CI, 1.21-1.81]), incident HF with preserved ejection fraction (1.44 [95% CI, 1.07-1.94]), incident heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (1.48 [95% CI, 1.08-2.02]), and incident AF (1.44 [95% CI, 1.18-1.77]) but not incident coronary heart disease (0.97 [95% CI, 0.71-1.34]). Censoring AF attenuated the MMP-2 association with HF with preserved ejection fraction. Higher plasma MMP-2 levels were associated with larger left ventricular end-diastolic volume index, greater left ventricular mass index, higher E/e' ratio, larger left atrial volume index, and worse left atrial reservoir and contractile strains (all P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher plasma MMP-2 levels associate with diastolic dysfunction, left atrial dysfunction, and a higher risk of incident HF and AF. AF is a mediator of MMP-2-associated HF with preserved ejection fraction risk.

Circulating neutrophil-related proteins associate with incident heart failure and cardiac dysfunction: The ARIC study

AIMS

Neutrophil activity contributes to adverse cardiac remodelling in experimental acute cardiac injury and is modifiable with pharmacologic agents like colchicine.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Neutrophil activity-related plasma proteins known to be affected by colchicine treatment were measured at Visit 3 (1993-1995) and Visit 5 (2011-2013) of the ARIC cohort study. A protein-based neutrophil activity score was derived from 10 candidate proteins using LASSO Cox regression. Associations with incident heart failure (HF) and with cardiac function using Cox proportional hazards regression and linear regression models, respectively. The mean ages at Visits 3 and 5 were 60 ± 6 and 75 ± 5 years, respectively, and 54% and 57% were women, respectively. Each 1-standard deviation increase in the neutrophil activity score was associated with a higher risk of incident HF in mid-life (hazard ratio [HR] 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.25-1.37) and late-life (HR 1.23, 95% CI 1.14-1.34), with a higher HR for HF with preserved than reduced ejection fraction (HR 1.30, 95% CI 1.16-1.47 vs. HR 1.13, 95% CI 0.98-1.30). Higher neutrophil activity was associated with greater left ventricular end-diastolic volume index, mass index and diastolic and systolic dysfunction.

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma proteins related to neutrophil function associate with incident HF in mid- and late-life and with adverse cardiac remodelling. Therapies that modify these proteins, such as colchicine, may represent promising targets for the prevention or treatment of HF.

Targeting pharmacotherapies for inflammatory and cardiorenal endpoints in kidney disease

ABSTRACT

Inflammation is an important contributor to excess cardiovascular risk and progressive renal injury in people with CKD. Dysregulation of the innate and adaptive immune system is accelerated by CKD and results in increased systemic inflammation, a heightened local vascular inflammatory response leading to accelerated atherosclerosis, and dysfunction of the cardiac and renal endothelium and microcirculation. Understanding and addressing the dysregulated immune system is a promising approach to modifying cardiorenal outcomes in people with CKD. However, targeted pharmacotherapies adopted from trials of non-CKD and cardio-rheumatology populations are only beginning to be developed and tested in human clinical trials. Pharmacotherapies that inhibit activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the downstream cytokines IL-1 and IL-6 are the most well-studied. However, most of the available evidence for efficacy is from small clinical trials with inflammatory and cardiorenal biomarker endpoints, rather than cardiovascular event endpoints, or from small CKD subgroups in larger clinical trials. Other pharmacotherapies that have proven beneficial for cardiorenal endpoints in people with CKD have been found to have pleiotropic anti-inflammatory benefits including statins, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, SGLT-2 inhibitors, and GLP-1 agonists. Finally, emerging therapies in CKD such as IL-6 inhibition, small-interfering RNA against lipoproteins, AhR inhibitors, and therapies adopted from the renal transplant population including mTOR inhibitors and T regulatory cell promoters may have benefits for cardiorenal and inflammatory endpoints but require further investigation in clinical trials.

Anticoagulation-Associated Adverse Drug Events in Hospitalized Patients Across Two Time Periods

PURPOSE

Anticoagulants often cause adverse drug events (ADEs), comprised of medication errors and adverse drug reactions, in patients. Our study objective was to determine the clinical characteristics, types, severity, cause, and outcomes of anticoagulation-associated ADEs from 2015-2020 (a contemporary period following implementation of an electronic health record, infusion device technology, and anticoagulant dosing nomograms) and to compare them with those of a historical period (2004-2009).

METHODS

We reviewed all anticoagulant-associated ADEs reported as part of our hospital-wide safety system. Reviewers classified type, severity, root cause, and outcomes for each ADE according to standard definitions. Reviewers also assessed events for patient harm. Patients were followed up to 30 days after the event.

RESULTS

Despite implementation of enhanced patient safety technology and procedure, ADEs increased in the contemporary period. In the contemporary period, we found 925 patients who had 984 anticoagulation-associated ADEs, including 811 isolated medication errors (82.4%); 13 isolated adverse drug reactions (1.4%); and 160 combined medication errors, adverse drug reactions, or both (16.2%). Unfractionated heparin was the most frequent ADE-related anticoagulant (77.7%, contemporary period vs 58.3%, historical period). The most frequent anticoagulation-associated medication error in the contemporary period was wrong rate or frequency of administration (26.1%, n = 253), with the most frequent root cause being prescribing errors (21.3%, n = 207). The type, root cause, and harm from ADEs were similar between periods.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that anticoagulation-associated ADEs occurred despite advances in patient safety technologies and practices. Events were common, suggesting marginal improvements in anticoagulant safety over time and ample opportunities for improvement.

Virtual Care Team Guided Management of Patients With Heart Failure During Hospitalization

BACKGROUND

Scalable and safe approaches for heart failure guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) optimization are needed.

OBJECTIVES

The authors assessed the safety and effectiveness of a virtual care team guided strategy on GDMT optimization in hospitalized patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

METHODS

In a multicenter implementation trial, we allocated 252 hospital encounters in patients with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40% to a virtual care team guided strategy (107 encounters among 83 patients) or usual care (145 encounters among 115 patients) across 3 centers in an integrated health system. In the virtual care team group, clinicians received up to 1 daily GDMT optimization suggestion from a physician-pharmacist team. The primary effectiveness outcome was in-hospital change in GDMT optimization score (+2 initiations, +1 dose up-titrations, -1 dose down-titrations, -2 discontinuations summed across classes). In-hospital safety outcomes were adjudicated by an independent clinical events committee.

RESULTS

Among 252 encounters, the mean age was 69 ± 14 years, 85 (34%) were women, 35 (14%) were Black, and 43 (17%) were Hispanic. The virtual care team strategy significantly improved GDMT optimization scores vs usual care (adjusted difference: +1.2; 95% CI: 0.7-1.8; P < 0.001). New initiations (44% vs 23%; absolute difference: +21%; P = 0.001) and net intensifications (44% vs 24%; absolute difference: +20%; P = 0.002) during hospitalization were higher in the virtual care team group, translating to a number needed to intervene of 5 encounters. Overall, 23 (21%) in the virtual care team group and 40 (28%) in usual care experienced 1 or more adverse events (P = 0.30). Acute kidney injury, bradycardia, hypotension, hyperkalemia, and hospital length of stay were similar between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients hospitalized with HFrEF, a virtual care team guided strategy for GDMT optimization was safe and improved GDMT across multiple hospitals in an integrated health system. Virtual teams represent a centralized and scalable approach to optimize GDMT.

Chronic Kidney Disease, Heart Failure, and Adverse Cardiac Remodeling in Older Adults: The ARIC Study

BACKGROUND

The associations of kidney dysfunction and damage with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), as well as adverse cardiac remodeling, in late-life remain incompletely understood.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to define the associations between kidney dysfunction and damage and incident HFrEF and HFpEF and cardiac structure and function in late-life.

METHODS

This study included 5,170 adults initially free of a heart failure (HF) diagnosis who had estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) measured at visit 5 (2011-2013) of the ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk In Communities) study. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the associations of eGFR and UACR with incident HF, HFrEF, and HFpEF through 2019. Multivariable linear regression models were used to investigate the associations of eGFR and UACR at visit 5 with changes in cardiac structure and function between visits 5 and 7 in 2,313 participants with available echocardiograms.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 76 ± 5 years, and 2,225 (43%) were men. The mean eGFR and median UACR were 66 ± 18 mL/min/1.73 m2 and 11 mg/g (25th, 75th percentile: 6, 22 mg/g), respectively. In fully adjusted models, both lower eGFR and higher UACR were associated with greater risk of any HF, HFrEF, and HFpEF. Lower eGFR was associated with larger increases in left ventricular end-diastolic volume index and worsening of diastolic measures. UACR did not associate with changes in cardiac structure or function.

CONCLUSIONS

Mild to moderate kidney dysfunction and damage associate with incident HF and adverse cardiac remodeling in late-life.

Associations Between Kidney Histopathologic Lesions and Incident Cardiovascular Disease in Adults With Chronic Kidney Disease

Importance

Histologic lesions in the kidney may reflect or contribute to systemic processes that may lead to adverse cardiovascular events.

Objective

To assess the association between kidney histopathologic lesion severity and the risk of incident major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective observational cohort study included participants without a history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart failure from the Boston Kidney Biopsy Cohort recruited from 2 academic medical centers in Boston, Massachusetts. Data were collected from September 2006 and November 2018, and data were analyzed from March to November 2021.

Exposures

Semiquantitative severity scores for kidney histopathologic lesions adjudicated by 2 kidney pathologists, a modified kidney pathology chronicity score, and primary clinicopathologic diagnostic categories.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was the composite of death or incident MACE, which included myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure hospitalization. All cardiovascular events were independently adjudicated by 2 investigators. Cox proportional hazards models estimated associations of histopathologic lesions and scores with cardiovascular events adjusted for demographic characteristics, clinical risk factors, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and proteinuria.

Results

Of 597 included participants, 308 (51.6%) were women, and the mean (SD) age was 51 (17) years. The mean (SD) eGFR was 59 (37) mL/min per 1.73 m2, and the median (IQR) urine protein to creatinine ratio was 1.54 (0.39-3.95). The most common primary clinicopathologic diagnoses were lupus nephritis, IgA nephropathy, and diabetic nephropathy. Over a median (IQR) of 5.5 (3.3-8.7) years of follow-up, the composite of death or incident MACE occurred in 126 participants (37 per 1000 person-years). Compared with the reference group of individuals with proliferative glomerulonephritis, the risk of death or incident MACE was highest in individuals with nonproliferative glomerulopathy (hazard ratio [HR], 2.61; 95% CI, 1.30-5.22; P = .002), diabetic nephropathy (HR, 3.56; 95% CI, 1.62-7.83; P = .002), and kidney vascular diseases (HR, 2.86; 95% CI, 1.51-5.41; P = .001) in fully adjusted models. The presence of mesangial expansion (HR, 2.98; 95% CI, 1.08-8.30; P = .04) and arteriolar sclerosis (HR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.03-2.72; P = .04) were associated with an increased risk of death or MACE. Compared with minimal chronicity, greater chronicity was significantly associated with an increased risk of death or MACE (severe: HR, 2.50; 95% CI, 1.06-5.87; P = .04; moderate: HR, 1.66; 95% CI, 0.74-3.75; P = .22; mild: HR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.01-4.89; P = .047) in fully adjusted models.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, specific kidney histopathological findings were associated with increased risks of CVD events. These results provide potential insight into mechanisms of the heart-kidney relationship beyond those provided by eGFR and proteinuria.

Effects of Intensive Systolic Blood Pressure Lowering on End-Stage Kidney Disease and Kidney Function Decline in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A Post Hoc Analysis of ACCORD-BP and SPRINT

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of intensive systolic blood pressure (SBP) lowering on the risk of major adverse kidney outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and/or prediabetes and cardiovascular risk factors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This post hoc ACCORD-BP subgroup analysis included participants in the standard glucose-lowering arm with cardiovascular risk factors required for SPRINT eligibility. Cox proportional hazards regression models compared the hazard for the composite of dialysis, kidney transplant, sustained estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <15 mL/min/1.73 m2, serum creatinine >3.3 mg/dL, or a sustained eGFR decline ≥57% between the intensive (<120 mmHg) and standard (<140 mmHg) SBP-lowering arms.

RESULTS

The study cohort included 1,966 SPRINT-eligible ACCORD-BP participants (40% women) with a mean age of 63 years. The mean SBP achieved after randomization was 120 ± 14 and 134 ± 15 mmHg in the intensive and standard arms, respectively. The kidney composite outcome occurred at a rate of 9.5 and 7.2 events per 1,000 person-years in the intensive and standard BP arms (hazard ratio [HR] 1.35 [95% CI 0.85-2.14]; P = 0.20). Intensive SBP lowering did not affect the risk of moderately (HR 0.96 [95% CI 0.76-1.20]) or severely (HR 0.92 [95% CI 0.66-1.28]) increased albuminuria. Including SPRINT participants with prediabetes in the cohort did not change the overall results.

CONCLUSIONS

This post hoc subgroup analysis suggests that intensive SBP lowering does not increase the risk of major adverse kidney events in individuals with T2DM and cardiovascular risk factors.

Systolic Blood Pressure Time in Target Range and Major Adverse Kidney and Cardiovascular Events

BACKGROUND

Whether time-in-target range (TTR) for systolic blood pressure (SBP) associates with adverse kidney and cardiovascular events remains incompletely understood.

METHODS

This study included participants in 2 clinical trials that compared intensive (<120 mm Hg) and standard (<140 mm Hg) SBP lowering. SBP-TTR for months 0 to 3 was calculated using therapeutic ranges of 110 to 130 mm Hg and 120 to 140 mm Hg for the intensive and standard arms, respectively. Adverse kidney events included the composite of dialysis, kidney transplant, serum creatinine >3.3 mg/dL, sustained eGFR <15 mL/(min·1.73 m2), or sustained eGFR decline >40%. Adverse cardiovascular events included myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, and cardiovascular death. Adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the association between SBP-TTR and kidney and cardiovascular events.

RESULTS

Participants with higher TTR were younger and less likely to have preexisting cardiovascular disease. Compared with participants with TTR of 0%, the risk of adverse kidney events was lower for participants with TTR of >0% to 43% (hazard ratio [95% CI], 0.57 [0.42-0.76]; P<0.001), 43% to <70% (0.57 [0.42-0.78]; P=0.001), 70% to <100% (0.53 [0.38-0.74]; P<0.001), and 100% (0.33 [0.20-0.57]; P<0.001) in fully adjusted models. The risk of major adverse cardiovascular events was lower for participants with TTR of >0% to 43% (0.66 [0.52-0.83]; P=0.001), 43% to <70% (0.70 [0.55-0.90]; P=0.005), 70% to <100% (0.65 [0.50-0.84]; P=0.001), or 100% (0.56 [0.39-0.80]; P=0.001) compared with those with TTR of 0%.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher SBP-TTR associates with lower risks of adverse kidney and cardiovascular events in adults with hypertension. SBP-TTR may be a potential therapeutic target and quality metric.

Influence of extracellular volume fraction on peak exercise oxygen pulse following thoracic radiotherapy

Background

Radiation-induced myocardial fibrosis increases heart failure (HF) risk and is associated with a restrictive cardiomyopathy phenotype. The myocardial extracellular volume fraction (ECVF) using contrast-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) quantifies the extent of fibrosis which, in severe cases, results in a noncompliant left ventricle (LV) with an inability to augment exercise stroke volume (SV). The peak exercise oxygen pulse (O₂Pulse), a noninvasive surrogate for exercise SV, may provide mechanistic insight into cardiac reserve. The relationship between LV ECVF and O₂Pulse following thoracic radiotherapy has not been explored.

Methods

Patients who underwent thoracic radiotherapy for chest malignancies with significant incidental heart dose (≥5 Gray (Gy), ≥10% heart) without a pre-cancer treatment history of HF underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing to determine O₂Pulse, contrast-enhanced CMR, and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) measurement. Multivariable-analyses were performed to identify factors associated with O₂Pulse normalized for age/gender/anthropometrics.

Results

Thirty patients (median [IQR] age 63 [57–67] years, 18 [60%] female, 2.0 [0.6–3.8] years post-radiotherapy) were included. The peak VO₂ was 1376 [1057–1552] mL·min^− 1, peak HR = 150 [122–164] bpm, resulting in an O₂Pulse of 9.2 [7.5–10.7] mL/beat or 82 (66–96) % of predicted. The ECVF, LV ejection fraction, heart volume receiving ≥10 Gy, and NTproBNP were independently associated with %O₂Pulse (P < .001).

Conclusions

In patients with prior radiotherapy heart exposure, %-predicted O₂Pulse is inversely associated markers of diffuse fibrosis (ECVF), ventricular wall stress (NTproBNP), radiotherapy heart dose, and positively related to LV function. Increased LV ECVF may reflect a potential etiology of impaired LV SV reserve in patients receiving thoracic radiotherapy for chest malignancies.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40959-021-00127-6.

Contemporary Trends in the Use of and Expenditures on Digoxin in the United States

BACKGROUND

Digoxin is indicated for the management of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and atrial fibrillation. Despite stronger guideline recommendations for other pharmacologic and device therapies, digoxin retains a role in select patients unable to tolerate or refractory to standard therapies. Contemporary utilization of and costs related to digoxin in the United States of America (USA) remain uncharacterized. The objective of this study was to estimate trends in digoxin use and expenditures across the USA from 2010 to 2017.

METHODS

We utilized the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey to estimate trends in digoxin use and expenditures across the USA from 2010 to 2017. The Medical Expenditure Panel Survey is an overlapping panel survey that interviews households in the USA to ascertain their healthcare utilization and expenditures. Complex sampling procedures allow for nationally representative estimates of utilization and expenditures. We report the number of digoxin users and expenditures across key subgroups in 2-year increments from 2010 to 2017.

RESULTS

The number of digoxin users in the USA declined by 47% from 766 users per 100,000 adults in 2010-11 to 402 users per 100,000 adults in 2016-17. While digoxin use declined among women and self-identified White adults, adults living at or below the federal poverty level and those who self-identified as Asian or Hispanic represent an increasing proportion of overall digoxin users. While nationwide digoxin expenditures declined by 26% from 2010-11 to 2012-13, they peaked at $260.3 million in 2014-15 and remained elevated at $188.7 million in 2016-17.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a nationwide trend towards declining use, digoxin remains prevalent amongst people of Asian and Hispanic descent in the USA. After a spike in cost in 2013, digoxin prices have yet to return to pre-spike levels. The role of digoxin in contemporary heart failure and arrhythmia management will continue to evolve as additional randomized and observational analyses become available.

Prescribing Patterns of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors in Patients with CKD: A Cross-Sectional Registry Analysis

Background

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) reduce kidney disease progression and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), regardless of diabetes status. However, the prescribing patterns of these novel therapeutics in the CKD population in real-world settings remain largely unknown.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included adults with stages 3-5 CKD included in the Mass General Brigham (MGB) CKD registry in March 2021. We described the adoption of SGLT-2i therapy and evaluated factors associated with SGLT-2i prescription using multivariable logistic regression models in the CKD population, with and without diabetes.

Results

A total of 72,240 patients with CKD met the inclusion criteria, 31,688 (44%) of whom were men and 61,265 (85%) White. A total of 22,653 (31%) patients were in the diabetic cohort, and 49,587 (69%) were in the nondiabetic cohort. SGLT-2i prescription was 6% in the diabetic cohort and 0.3% in the nondiabetic cohort. In multivariable analyses, younger Black men with a history of heart failure, use of cardiovascular medications, and at least one cardiologist visit in the previous year were associated with higher odds of SGLT-2i prescription in both diabetic and nondiabetic cohorts. Among patients with diabetes, advanced CKD stages were associated with lower odds of SGLT-2i prescription, whereas urine dipstick test and at least one subspecialist visit in the previous year were associated with higher odds of SGLT-2i prescription. In the nondiabetic cohort, CKD stage, urine dipstick test, and at least one nephrologist visit in the previous year were not significantly associated with SGLT-2i prescription.

Conclusions

In this registry study, prescription of SGLT-2i was low in the CKD population, particularly among patients without diabetes.

Targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome in cardiovascular diseases

The NACHT, leucine-rich repeat (LRR), and pyrin domain (PYD)-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is an intracellular sensing protein complex that plays a major role in innate immunity. Following tissue injury, activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome results in cytokine production, primarily interleukin(IL)-1β and IL-18, and, eventually, inflammatory cell death - pyroptosis. While a balanced inflammatory response favors damage resolution and tissue healing, excessive NLRP3 activation causes detrimental effects. A key involvement of the NLRP3 inflammasome has been reported across a wide range of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Several pharmacological agents selectively targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome system have been developed and tested in animals and early phase human studies with overall promising results. While the NLRP3 inhibitors are in clinical development, multiple randomized trials have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of IL-1 blockade in atherothrombosis, heart failure and recurrent pericarditis. Furthermore, the non-selective NLRP3 inhibitor colchicine has been recently shown to significantly reduce cardiovascular events in patients with chronic coronary disease. In this review, we will outline the mechanisms driving NLRP3 assembly and activation, and discuss the pathogenetic role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in CVDs, providing an overview of the current and future therapeutic approaches targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome.

Abstract 20: Association Of Systolic Blood Pressure Time-in-target Range With Adverse Kidney And Cardiovascular Outcomes In Adults With And Without Diabetes

Introduction: Hypertension associates with both kidney and cardiovascular (CV) disease risk. Time-in-target range (TTR) associates with CV risk independent of mean SBP and SBP variability. We hypothesized that SBP TTR predicts both adverse kidney and CV outcomes.

Methods: ACCORD BP and SPRINT trial participants with >=2 SBP measurements were eligible, except ACCORD standard BP lowering participants due fewer SBP measurements. SBP TTR for months 0-3 was calculated using Rosendaal linear interpolation with target ranges of 110-130 mm Hg and 120-140 mm Hg for participants in the intensive or standard arms, respectively. Adverse kidney outcomes included dialysis, kidney transplant, serum creatinine > 3.3 mg/dL, sustained eGFR of < 15 mL/min per 1.73 m 2 or sustained eGFR decline >40% after month 3. Adverse CV outcomes included myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure and CV death. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the association between TTR and adverse outcomes after demographics, clinical risk factors and baseline SBP adjustment

Results: Participants with higher TTR were younger, less likely to have preexisting CV disease and had less albuminuria, higher eGFR and lower baseline SBP. In fully adjusted models accounting for baseline SBP, higher TTR independently associated with a lower risk of adverse kidney and CV outcomes (P-trend < .001 for each). Whereas the relationship between TTR and CV risk increased monotonically with higher TTR, the TTR association with kidney risk was greatest at the extremes of TTR ( Figure ).

Conclusions: Further reductions in adverse kidney and CV outcomes may be achievable through sustained SBP control.

Effect of a Physician/Pharmacist Collaborative Care Model on Time in Target Range for Systolic Blood Pressure: Post Hoc Analysis of the CAPTION Trial

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Longer time in target range (TTR) for systolic blood pressure (SBP) is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular events. Team-based care improves SBP control but its effect on the consistency of SBP control over time is unknown. This post hoc analysis used data from a cluster-randomized trial of a physician/pharmacist collaborative model that randomized medical offices to either a 9- or 24-month pharmacist intervention or control group. TTR for SBP was calculated using linear interpolation and an SBP range of 110 to 130 mm Hg. TTR is reported as median values and group comparisons assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Of the 625 participants enrolled, 524 had 9-month and 366 had 24-month SBP data. Participants were a median 59 years old, 59% female, and 52% minority. After 24 months, the median TTR for SBP was 31.9% and 29.8% for the 9- and 24-month intervention groups, respectively, compared with 19% in the control group (P=0.0068). This observation persisted in the subgroup of participants with diabetes or chronic kidney disease and minorities. A longer TTR was not associated with an increased risk of adverse drug events. Time to first observed SBP in the target range was shorter in the intervention group compared with control (270 versus 365 days; P=0.0047). A physician/pharmacist collaborative care model achieved longer TTR for SBP compared with control (usual care).

A phase 1 clinical trial of SP16, a first-in-class anti-inflammatory LRP1 agonist, in healthy volunteers

BACKGROUND

Endogenous serine protease inhibitors are associated with anti-inflammatory and pro-survival signaling mediated via Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) signaling. SP16 is a short polypeptide that mimics the LRP1 binding portion of alpha-1 antitrypsin.

METHODS

A pilot phase I, first-in-man, randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled safety study was conducted to evaluate a subcutaneous injection at three dose levels of SP16 (0.0125, 0.05, and 0.2 mg/kg [up to 12 mg]) or matching placebo in 3:1 ratio in healthy individuals. Safety monitoring included vital signs, laboratory examinations (including hematology, coagulation, platelet function, chemistry, myocardial toxicity) and electrocardiography (to measure effect on PR, QRS, and QTc).

RESULTS

Treatment with SP16 was not associated with treatment related serious adverse events. SP16 was associated with mild-moderate pain at the time of injection that was significantly higher than placebo on a 0-10 pain scale (6.0+/-1.4 [0.2 mg/kg] versus 1.5+/-2.1 [placebo], P = 0.0088). No differences in vital signs, laboratory examinations and electrocardiography were found in those treated with SP16 versus placebo.

CONCLUSION

A one-time treatment with SP16 for doses up to 0.2 mg/kg or 12 mg was safe in healthy volunteers.

Virtual optimization of guideline-directed medical therapy in hospitalized patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: the IMPLEMENT-HF pilot study

AIMS

Implementation of guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) remains incomplete. Non-cardiovascular hospitalization may present opportunities for GDMT optimization. We assessed the efficacy and durability of a virtual, multidisciplinary 'GDMT Team' on medical therapy prescription for HFrEF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Consecutive hospitalizations in patients with HFrEF (ejection fraction ≤40%) were prospectively identified from 3 February to 1 March 2020 (usual care group) and 2 March to 28 August 2020 (intervention group). Patients with critical illness, de novo heart failure, and systolic blood pressure <90 mmHg in the preceeding 24 hs prior to enrollment were excluded. In the intervention group, a pharmacist-physician GDMT Team provided optimization suggestions to treating teams based on an evidence-based algorithm. The primary outcome was a GDMT optimization score, the sum of positive (+1 for new initiations or up-titrations) and negative therapeutic changes (-1 for discontinuations or down-titrations) at hospital discharge. Serious in-hospital safety events were assessed. Among 278 consecutive encounters with HFrEF, 118 met eligibility criteria; 29 (25%) received usual care and 89 (75%) received the GDMT Team intervention. Among usual care encounters, there were no changes in GDMT prescription during hospitalization. In the intervention group, β-blocker (72% to 88%; P = 0.01), angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (6% to 17%; P = 0.03), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (16% to 29%; P = 0.05), and triple therapy (9% to 26%; P < 0.01) prescriptions increased during hospitalization. After adjustment for clinically relevant covariates, the GDMT Team was associated with an increase in GDMT optimization score (+0.58; 95% confidence interval +0.09 to +1.07; P = 0.02). There were no serious in-hospital adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-cardiovascular hospitalizations are a potentially safe and effective setting for GDMT optimization. A virtual GDMT Team was associated with improved heart failure therapeutic optimization. This implementation strategy warrants testing in a prospective randomized controlled trial.

Systolic Blood Pressure Time in Target Range and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients With Hypertension

BACKGROUND

Standard blood pressure control metrics may not account for fluctuations in blood pressure over time.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to estimate the independent association between time in systolic blood pressure target range and major adverse cardiovascular events among adults with hypertension.

METHODS

This study was a post hoc analysis of SPRINT (Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial), a randomized clinical trial that compared intensive (<120 mm Hg) and standard (<140 mm Hg) systolic blood pressure treatment interventions in adults with hypertension and high cardiovascular risk. Target range was defined as 110 to 130 mm Hg and 120 to 140 mm Hg for the intensive and standard arms, respectively. Time in target range was estimated over the first 3 months of follow-up using linear interpolation. The association between time in target range with major adverse cardiovascular events was estimated using adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression models.

RESULTS

Participants with greater time in target range were younger, had lower 10-year cardiovascular risk and lower baseline systolic blood pressure, and were more likely women and statin users. Each 1-SD increase in time in target range was significantly associated with a decreased risk of first major adverse cardiovascular event in fully adjusted models. Time in target range remained significantly associated with major adverse cardiovascular events despite adjustment for mean systolic blood pressure or systolic blood pressure variability. Among participants with mean systolic blood pressure at or below target, time in target range remained associated with major adverse cardiovascular events.

CONCLUSIONS

Time in systolic blood pressure target range independently predicts major adverse cardiovascular event risk.

Cardiac Myosin Activation for the Treatment of Systolic Heart Failure

ABSTRACT

Left ventricular systolic dysfunction is the hallmark pathology in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Increasing left ventricular contractility with beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitors, or levosimendan has failed to improve clinical outcomes and, in some situations, increased the risk of sudden cardiac death. Beta-adrenergic receptor agonists and phosphodiesterase-3 inhibitors retain an important role in advanced heart failure. Thus, there remains an unmet need for safe and effective therapies to improve left ventricular systolic function. Two novel cardiac myotropes, omecamtiv mecarbil and danicamtiv, target cardiac myosin to increase left ventricular systolic performance. Neither omecamtiv mecarbil nor danicamtiv affects cardiomyocyte calcium handling, the proposed mechanism underlying the life-threatening arrhythmias associated with cardiac calcitropes and calcium sensitizers. Phase 2 clinical trials have demonstrated that these cardiac myosin activators prolong left ventricular systolic ejection time and promote left ventricular and atrial reverse remodeling. At higher plasma concentrations, these agents may be associated with myocardial ischemia and impaired diastolic function. An ongoing phase 3 clinical trial will estimate the clinical efficacy and safety of omecamtiv mecarbil. An additional study of these agents, which have minimal hemodynamic and renal effects, is warranted in patients with advanced heart failure refractory to guideline-directed neurohormonal blockers.

Medicaid Expansion and Utilization of Antihyperglycemic Therapies

OBJECTIVE

Certain antihyperglycemic therapies modify cardiovascular and kidney outcomes among patients with type 2 diabetes, but early uptake in practice appears restricted to particular demographics. We examine the association of Medicaid expansion with use of and expenditures related to antihyperglycemic therapies among Medicaid beneficiaries.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We employed a difference-in-difference design to analyze the association of Medicaid expansion on prescription of noninsulin antihyperglycemic therapies. We used 2012-2017 national and state Medicaid data to compare prescription claims and costs between states that did (n = 25) and did not expand (n = 26) Medicaid by January 2014.

RESULTS

Following Medicaid expansion in 2014, average noninsulin antihyperglycemic therapies per state/1,000 enrollees increased by 4.2%/quarter in expansion states and 1.6%/quarter in nonexpansion states. For sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RA), quarterly growth rates per 1,000 enrollees were 125.3% and 20.7% for expansion states and 87.6% and 16.0% for nonexpansion states, respectively. Expansion states had faster utilization of SGLT2i and GLP-1RA than nonexpansion states. Difference-in-difference estimates for change in volume of prescriptions after Medicaid expansion between expansion versus nonexpansion states was 1.68 (95% CI 1.09-2.26; P < 0.001) for all noninsulin therapies, 0.125 (-0.003 to 0.25; P = 0.056) for SGLT2i, and 0.12 (0.055-0.18; P < 0.001) for GLP-1RA.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of noninsulin antihyperglycemic therapies, including SGLT2i and GLP-1RA, increased among low-income adults in both Medicaid expansion and nonexpansion states, with a significantly greater increase in overall use and in GLP-1RA use in expansion states. Future evaluation of the population-level health impact of expanded access to these therapies is needed.

Role for Anti-Cytokine Therapies in Severe Coronavirus Disease 2019

The causative agent for coronavirus disease 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, appears exceptional in its virulence and immunopathology. In some patients, the resulting hyperinflammation resembles a cytokine release syndrome. Our knowledge of the immunopathogenesis of coronavirus disease 2019 is evolving and anti-cytokine therapies are under active investigation. This narrative review summarizes existing knowledge of the immune response to coronavirus infection and highlights the current and potential future roles of therapeutic strategies to combat the hyperinflammatory response of patients with coronavirus disease 2019.

DATA SOURCES

Relevant and up-to-date literature, media reports, and author experiences were included from Medline, national newspapers, and public clinical trial databases.

STUDY SELECTION

The authors selected studies for inclusion by consensus.

DATA EXTRACTION

The authors reviewed each study and selected approrpriate data for inclusion through consensus.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Hyperinflammation, reminiscent of cytokine release syndromes such as macrophage activation syndrome and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, appears to drive outcomes among adults with severe coronavirus disease 2019. Cytokines, particularly interleukin-1 and interleukin-6, appear to contribute importantly to such systemic hyperinflammation. Ongoing clinical trials will determine the efficacy and safety of anti-cytokine therapies in coronavirus disease 2019. In the interim, anti-cytokine therapies may provide a treatment option for adults with severe coronavirus disease 2019 unresponsive to standard critical care management, including ventilation.

CONCLUSIONS

This review provides an overview of the current understanding of the immunopathogenesis of coronavirus disease 2019 in adults and proposes treatment considerations for anti-cytokine therapy use in adults with severe disease.

Correlation of laboratory haemoconcentration measures with filling pressures obtained via pulmonary arterial pressure sensors in ambulatory heart failure patients

AIMS

Laboratory measures of haemoconcentration correlate with invasive haemodynamics and clinical outcomes in hospitalized heart failure (HF) patients. We aimed to determine the association between haemoconcentration and haemodynamic measures in ambulatory HF patients with implantable pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) sensors.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We reviewed ambulatory HF patients (n = 23) managed at the Brigham and Women's Hospital with implantable PAP sensors (CardioMEMS™, Abbott, Atlanta, GA, USA) who had sufficient data for serial haemodynamic-haemoconcentration correlation. The primary measures of interest were the absolute changes in haemoglobin and diastolic PAP at follow-up compared to baseline values (obtained at implantation). In 23 patients (median age 64 years, 57% with HF with preserved ejection fraction), 518 paired laboratory-haemodynamic measurements were evaluated. At a median follow-up of 27 (interquartile range 13-42) months, 17 (74%) patients had at least one hospitalization (59 total hospitalizations including 30 HF hospitalizations). For the population as a whole, diastolic PAP was negatively correlated with haemoglobin level (r = -0.09, P = 0.053). This negative correlation was more apparent when changes in haemoglobin and diastolic PAP were evaluated at the time of HF hospitalization compared to baseline values (r = -0.40, P = 0.029). The mean rise in diastolic PAP of 3.6 mmHg at HF hospitalization corresponded to a numerical decline of 0.6 g/dL in haemoglobin (P = 0.20).

CONCLUSION

Change in haemoglobin was correlated with change in diastolic PAP in ambulatory HF patients, especially at the time of HF hospitalization. These findings support the potential for investigation into the role of ambulatory monitoring of haemoglobin as an inexpensive, non-invasive tool to guide de-congestion strategies and potentially prevent HF hospitalizations.

Determinants of Cardiorespiratory Fitness Following Thoracic Radiotherapy in Lung or Breast Cancer Survivors

We measured peak oxygen consumption (VO₂) in previous recipients of thoracic radiotherapy and assessed the determinants of cardiorespiratory fitness with an emphasis on cardiac and pulmonary function. Cancer survivors who have received thoracic radiotherapy with incidental cardiac involvement often experience impaired cardiorespiratory fitness, as measured by reduced peak VO₂, a marker of impaired cardiovascular reserve. We enrolled 25 subjects 1.8 (0.1 to 8.2) years following completion of thoracic radiotherapy with significant heart exposure (at least 10% of heart volume receiving at least 5 Gray). All subjects underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing, Doppler echocardiography, and circulating biomarkers assessment. The cohort included 16 Caucasians (64%), 15 women (60%) with a median age of 63 (59 to 66) years. The peak VO₂ was 16.8 (13.5 to 21.9) ml·kg^-1·min^-1 or moderately reduced at 62% (50% to 93%) of predicted. The mean cardiac radiation dose was 5.4 (3.7 to 14.7) Gray, and it significantly correlated inversely with peak VO₂ (R = -0.445, p = 0.02). Multivariate regression analysis revealed the diastolic functional reserve index and the N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) serum levels were independent predictors of peak VO₂ (ß = +0.813, p <0.01 and ß = -0.414, p = 0.04, respectively). In conclusion, patients who had received thoracic radiation display a dose-dependent relation between the cardiac radiation dose received and the impairment in peak VO₂, the reduction in diastolic functional reserve index, and elevation of NTproBNP.

Interleukin-1 Blockade Inhibits the Acute Inflammatory Response in Patients With ST-Segment-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Background

ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction is associated with an intense acute inflammatory response and risk of heart failure. We tested whether interleukin‐1 blockade with anakinra significantly reduced the area under the curve for hsCRP (high sensitivity C‐reactive protein) levels during the first 14 days in patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction (VCUART3 [Virginia Commonwealth University Anakinra Remodeling Trial 3]).

Methods and Results

We conducted a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, clinical trial in 99 patients with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction in which patients were assigned to 2 weeks treatment with anakinra once daily (N=33), anakinra twice daily (N=31), or placebo (N=35). hsCRP area under the curve was significantly lower in patients receiving anakinra versus placebo (median, 67 [interquartile range, 39–120] versus 214 [interquartile range, 131–394] mg·day/L; P<0.001), without significant differences between the anakinra arms. No significant differences were found between anakinra and placebo groups in the interval changes in left ventricular end‐systolic volume (median, 1.4 [interquartile range, −9.8 to 9.8] versus −3.9 [interquartile range, −15.4 to 1.4] mL; P=0.21) or left ventricular ejection fraction (median, 3.9% [interquartile range, −1.6% to 10.2%] versus 2.7% [interquartile range, −1.8% to 9.3%]; P=0.61) at 12 months. The incidence of death or new‐onset heart failure or of death and hospitalization for heart failure was significantly lower with anakinra versus placebo (9.4% versus 25.7% [P=0.046] and 0% versus 11.4% [P=0.011], respectively), without difference between the anakinra arms. The incidence of serious infection was not different between anakinra and placebo groups (14% versus 14%; P=0.98). Injection site reactions occurred more frequently in patients receiving anakinra (22%) versus placebo (3%; P=0.016).

Conclusions

In patients presenting with ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction, interleukin‐1 blockade with anakinra significantly reduces the systemic inflammatory response compared with placebo.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/. Unique identifier: NCT01950299.

Recent advances in the treatment of chronic heart failure

After more than a decade of relatively modest advancements, heart failure therapeutic development has accelerated, with the PARADIGM-HF trial and the SHIFT trial demonstrated significant reductions in cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization for sacubitril-valsartan and in heart failure hospitalization alone for ivabradine. Several heart failure therapies have since received or stand on the verge of market approval and promise substantive advances in the treatment of chronic heart failure. Some of these improve clinical outcomes, whereas others improve functional or patient-reported outcomes. In light of these rapid advances in the care of adults living with chronic heart failure, in this review we seek to update the general practitioner on novel heart failure therapies. Specifically, we will review recent data on the implementation of sacubitril-valsartan, treatment of functional mitral regurgitation, sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor therapy, agents for transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy, treatment of iron deficiency in heart failure, and the use of biomarkers or remote hemodynamic monitoring to guide heart failure therapy.

Interleukin-1 blockade in cardiovascular diseases: a clinical update

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is the prototypical pro-inflammatory cytokine. IL-1 was implicated as a cardiodepressant factor in septic shock, and subsequent pre-clinical and clinical research has defined important roles for IL-1 in atherosclerosis, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and heart failure (HF). IL-1 promotes the formation of the atherosclerotic plaque and facilitates its progression and complication. In a large phase III clinical trial of stable patients with prior AMI, blocking IL-1 activity using a monoclonal antibody prevented recurrent atherothrombotic cardiovascular events. IL-1 also contributes to adverse remodelling and left ventricular dysfunction after AMI, and in phase II studies, IL-1 blockade quenched the inflammatory response associated with ST-segment elevation AMI and prevented HF. In patients with established HF, IL-1 is thought to impair beta-adrenergic receptor signalling and intracellular calcium handling. Phase II studies in patients with HF show improved exercise capacity with IL-1 blockade. Thus, IL-1 blockade is poised to enter the clinical arena as an additional strategy to reduce the residual cardiovascular risk and/or address inflammatory cardiovascular conditions refractory to standard treatments. There are several IL-1 blockers available for clinical use, which differ in mechanism of action, and potentially also efficacy and safety. While IL-1 blockade is not immunosuppressive and not associated with opportunistic infections or an increased risk of cancer, fatal infections may occur more frequently while on treatment with IL-1 blockers likely due to a blunting of the inflammatory signs of infection leading to delayed presentation and diagnosis. We discuss the practical use of IL-1 blockade, including considerations for patient selection and safety monitoring.

P6388Effects of Interleukin-1 blockade with anakinra in patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction on recurrent ischemic events: results from the VCUART3 study

Background

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with an intense acute inflammatory response and an increased risk of recurrent ischemic events. Prior studies of IL-1 blockade have shown conflicting results regarding the risk of future events.

Methods

We enrolled patients with STEMI within 12 hours of presentation at 3 sites in the United States of America. After revascularization, patients were randomly assigned to receive anakinra 100 mg twice daily, anakinra 100 mg once daily (standard dose) alternated with placebo once daily every 12 hours, or placebo every 12 hours for 14 days in 1:1:1 ratio. Prespecified exploratory endpoints for recurrent ischemic events, adjudicated by an independent committee, evaluated the composite risk of subsequent acute myocardial infarction (AMI, World Health Organization classification Type 1), unstable angina, or urgent revascularization. Data are expressed as median and interquartile range or number and percentage. Cox regression analysis was used to generate unadjusted hazard ratios and confidence intervals. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01950299)

Results

Of 311 patients screened, 99 subjects (81% males, 58% Caucasians, 55 [49–62] years of age) were randomly assigned to anakinra twice daily (N=31), anakinra once daily (N=33) or placebo (N=35). The cohort included patients with hypertension (57%), tobacco use (55%), diabetes mellitus (30%), and prior diagnosis of coronary artery disease (21%) without statistically significant imbalances in the demographic characteristics between groups (all P>0.05). Discharge medications for the index STEMI admission, in addition to the study medication, included aspirin (100%), statins (100%), P2Y12 inhibitors (100%), beta-blockers (90%), and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker (84%), without statistically significant imbalances between the 3 groups. Over the 1-year follow-up, recurrent ischemic events occurred in 5/35 (14.3%) patients treated with placebo and 6/64 (9.1%) patients treated with anakinra (hazard ratio = 0.68 [0.20–2.24], P=0.53). No differences were observed between high- and low-dose anakinra treatment groups.

Conclusions

A two week treatment with IL-1 receptor antagonist, anakinra, did not significantly decrease or increase recurrent ischemic events over the course of a 1-year follow-up in patients with STEMI.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Funded by NHLBI 1R34HL121402; Drug supply by Swedish Orphan Biovitrum

5233Interleukin-1 blockade with Anakinra in ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction: Results from the VCUART3 study

Background

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with an intense inflammatory response that predicts an increased risk of death and heart failure (HF). In the current study we tested whether anakinra, a recombinant Interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor antagonist, given once daily (standard dose) or twice daily reduced systemic inflammation in patients with STEMI.

Methods

We enrolled patients with STEMI within 12 hours of presentation at 3 sites. After revascularization, patients were randomly assigned to receive anakinra 100 mg twice daily, anakinra 100 mg once daily alternating with placebo once daily every 12 hours, or placebo twice daily, for 14 days in a 1:1:1 ratio. The primary efficacy outcome was the area under the curve for C-reactive protein levels (CRP-AUC) using a high-sensitivity assay at 14 days comparing anakinra (both arms) versus placebo followed by a comparison between each of the anakinra arms with placebo. Two pre-specified exploratory clinical efficacy endpoints, adjudicated by a blinded event committee, were assessed: a composite endpoint of all-cause death for any reason or incidence of HF (defined as new-onset HF requiring hospitalization or a new prescription of a loop diuretic, D+HF) and a composite endpoint of death and HF hospitalization (D+HHF) at 1 year. Data are expressed as median and interquartile range or number and percentage. Kaplan-Meyer survival curves were compared using Log-rank test (Mantel-Cox). (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01950299)

Results

Of 311 patients screened, 99 subjects (80 [81%] males, 57 [58%] Caucasians, 55 [49–62] years of age) were randomly assigned to anakinra twice daily (N=31), anakinra once daily (N=33) or placebo (N=35). There were no significant imbalances in the demographic characteristics between groups (all P>0.05). The CRP-AUC was significantly lower in the anakinra group than in the placebo group (67 [39–120] versus 214 [131–394] mg/dl, P<0.001; and P<0.001 for each anakinra arm versus placebo separately, without significant differences between the two anakinra arms, P=0.41). Treatment with anakinra was associated with a significant reduction versus placebo in the incidence of D+HF (6/64 [9.4%] versus 9/35 [25.7%], P=0.046), and of D+HHF (0/64 [0] versus 4/35 [11.4%], P=0.011), without any significant difference between the two anakinra arms. Anakinra was not associated with any treatment-related serious adverse events, nor with excess infections compared with placebo (14.1% vs 14.3%, P=0.87).

Conclusions

Among patients with STEMI, IL-1 blockade significantly reduced the systemic inflammatory response compared with placebo, without any significant difference between standard or high dose regimens. Prespecified exploratory analyses on clinical endpoints demonstrate reduced incidence of HF and reduced HF hospitalizations, supporting the concept of beneficial effects with IL-1 blockade in patients with acute myocardial infarction.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Funded by NHLBI 1R34HL121402; Drug supply from Swedish Orphan Biovitrum

253Effects of Interleukin-1 blockade with Anakinra on cardiac function in ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction: results from the VCUART3 echocardiography study

Background

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with an intense acute inflammatory response further promoting cardiac dysfunction and heart failure (HF). Pilot proof-of-concept studies with anakinra, recombinant Interleukin-1 (IL-1) receptor antagonist, have shown feasibility and safety of IL-1 blockade in patients with STEMI. In the current study we analyzed the effects of anakinra on left ventricular (LV) dimensions and function in patients with STEMI.

Methods

We enrolled patients with STEMI within 12 hours of presentation at 3 sites in the United States of America. After revascularization, patients were randomly assigned to receive anakinra 100 mg twice daily, anakinra 100 mg once daily alternated with placebo once daily every 12 hours, or placebo twice daily, for 14 days in a 1:1:1 ratio. A transthoracic echocardiogram was completed within 24 hours of admission and at 1 year follow up to measure LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes (LVEDV and LVESV, respectively), stroke volume (SV) and ejection fraction (LVEF). (ClinicalTrials NCT01950299)

Results

Paired echocardiography studies (follow up study obtained 362 days [336–375] after the baseline study) were available in 63 of the 99 patients (63%): 23 of 35 patients in the placebo group (66%) and 40 of the 64 patients in the anakinra group (62%, P>0.05 for missing studies between the 2 groups; P>0.05 for duration of follow up). Baseline LVEDV, LVESV, SV and LVEF was not significantly different comparing placebo and anakinra (all P>0.05). Patients treated with anakinra had a significant improvement in LVEF from 49.8% (41.8–60.0%) to 54.0% (46.0–58.4%, P=0.028) and SV from 43.6 ml (37.6–52.1 ml) to 48.7 ml (40.9–62.5 ml, P=0.008), whereas no significant changes occurred within the placebo group (LVEF: from 51.7% [40.1–56.0%] to 53.5% [43.4–59.4%], P=0.25; SV: from 47.7 ml [40.1–56.8 ml], to 53.0 ml [44.9–57.4 ml], P=0.81). The between-groups differences, however, were not statistically significant. No significant changes were noted in LVEDV and LVESV in either group. The interval changes in CRP between admission and 72 hours, expression of the acute inflammatory response, inversely correlated with the LVEF at follow up (R=-0.30, P=0.026), with higher levels of CRP corresponding to lower LVEF values

Conclusions

A significant improvement in cardiac systolic function was seen in patients treated with IL-1 receptor antagonist, anakinra, following STEMI, and not in patients with placebo. Further studies are however required to determine whether the benefits of IL-1 blockade in the prevention and treatment of HF are mediated by the effects on cardiac function.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Funded by NHLBI 1R34HL121402; Drug supply from Swedish Orphan Biovitrum

5947Predictive role of C-reactive protein levels in patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction for heart failure related events

Background

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with an intense acute inflammatory response and an increased risk of death and heart failure (HF). C-reactive protein (CRP) is the inflammatory biomarker most commonly used for risk stratification in patients with cardiovascular diseases. CRP levels are known to rise and fall during STEMI in response to myocardial injury. In this study, we analyzed whether admission CRP or delayed CRP (measured at 72 hours after admission) held a greater predictive value for adverse HF events in patients with STEMI.

Methods

We analyzed data from the VCUART3 clinical trial enrolling 99 patients with STEMI within 12 hours of presentation at 3 sites in the United States of America treated with anakinra or placebo. CRP levels were measured with a high-sensitivity assay at time of admission and again at 72 hours later. A dedicated committee composed of individuals not involved in the conduct of the trial adjudicated HF events including a composite endpoint of death from any reason or incidence of HF defined as new-onset HF requiring hospital admission or a new prescription for a loop diuretic (D+HF) and a composite endpoint of death and HF hospitalization (D+HHF) at 1 year. We used a time-dependent Cox-regression analysis to determine the association of CRP at admission or at 72 hours with the outcomes of interest in univariate and multivariate analysis. Data are presented as median and interquartile range. (ClinicalTrials NCT01950299)

Results

CRP levels from admission and 72 hours were available in 90 and 87 subjects respectively and they increased from 4.6 [2.8–8.5] mg/L to 11.6 [4.6–24.5] mg/L (P<0.001). Both admission CRP (CRP0) and CRP at 72 hours (CRP72) were associated with the risk of D+HF (P=0.011 and <0.001, respectively) and of D+HHF (P=0.010 and P<0.001, respectively); however at multivariate analysis, only CRP72 remained significantly associated with the risk of D+HF (P=0.001) and D+HHF (P=0.004) while CRP0 was not. CRP72 significantly correlated with NTproBNP levels at 72 hours (NTproBNP72, Spearman rho R=+0.37, P=0.001). NTproBNP72 predicted D+HF (P=0.030) but not independently of CRP72 (P=0.096 for NTproBNP72 and P=0.007 for CRP72 at multivariate analysis including the 2 variables). NTproBNP72 did not predict D-HHF.

Conclusions

Among contemporary patients with STEMI, the levels of CRP at 72 hours after admission was superior to admission CRP levels for predicting the incidence of HF events, and independent of NTproBNP levels. Our results indicate the importance of the inflammatory response during STEMI, supporting the concept of inhibiting the inflammatory response as a therapeutic strategy.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Funded by NHLBI 1R34HL121402; Drug supply from Swedish Orphan Biovitrum

Novel and Emerging Therapeutics for Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is responsible for 205 deaths per 100,000 persons annually and is the leading cause of death worldwide. The public health burden of cardiovascular disease is expected to continue to grow as the prevalence of many cardiovascular risk factors increases. Several novel classes of glucose-lowering, lipid-lowering, and weight-loss therapeutics have shown mortality benefits in outcomes trials. However, a large proportion of subjects in those trials had established cardiovascular disease, so, as a result, the role of these novel therapeutics in primary cardiovascular prevention is controversial. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the pharmacotherapeutic management of the cardiovascular risk factors of hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and obesity. We examine key subgroups within recent cardiovascular outcome trials, weigh the risks and benefits of several novel therapeutics, and provide practical insight into the use of these agents. Our article concludes with a look toward the future and provides the practitioner and scientist with an early view of emerging therapeutics that may play an important role in primary cardiovascular prevention.

C-Reactive Protein and N-Terminal Pro-brain Natriuretic Peptide Levels Correlate With Impaired Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Patients With Heart Failure Across a Wide Range of Ejection Fraction

Background: Impaired cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is a hallmark of heart failure (HF). Serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), a systemic inflammatory marker, and of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), a biomarker of myocardial strain, independently predict adverse outcomes in HF patients. Whether CRP and/or NT-proBNP also predict the degree of CRF impairment in HF patients across a wide range of ejection fraction is not yet established.

Methods: Using retrospective analysis, 200 patients with symptomatic HF who completed one or more treadmill cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPX) using a symptom-limited ramp protocol and had paired measurements of serum high-sensitivity CRP and NT-proBNP on the same day were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate correlations were evaluated with linear regression after logarithmic transformation of CRP (log₁₀) and NT-proBNP (log_N).

Results: Mean age of patients was 57 ± 10 years and 55% were male. Median CRP levels were 3.7 [1.5–9.0] mg/L, and NT-proBNP levels were 377 [106–1,464] pg/ml, respectively. Mean peak oxygen consumption (peak VO₂) was 16 ± 4 mlO₂•kg⁻¹•min⁻¹. CRP levels significantly correlated with peakVO₂ in all patients (R = −0.350, p < 0.001) and also separately in the subgroup of patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (HFrEF, N = 109) (R = −0.282, p < 0.001) and in those with preserved EF (HFpEF, N = 57) (R = −0.459, p < 0.001). NT-proBNP levels also significantly correlated with peak VO₂ in all patients (R = −0.330, p < 0.001) and separately in patients with HFrEF (R = −0.342, p < 0.001) and HFpEF (R = −0.275, p = 0.032). CRP and NT-proBNP did not correlate with each other (R = 0.05, p = 0.426), but independently predicted peak VO₂ (R = 0.421, p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions: Biomarkers of inflammation and myocardial strain independently predict peak VO₂ in HF patients. Anti-inflammatory therapies and therapies alleviating myocardial strain may independently improve CRF in HF patients across a large spectrum of LVEF.

Key Articles and Guidelines in the Management of Heart Failure: 2018 Update

Heart failure is one of the leading causes of hospitalizations in the United States, with >1 million admissions yearly and a 25% risk of readmissions within 1 month. In order to assist clinicians, we provide an update of the heart failure bibliography that was published in Pharmacotherapy in 2008, which followed the original bibliography published in 2004. A significant number of clinical trials and observational studies have been conducted since the early 1980s to guide management of heart failure patients. Major advances have occurred in the past 10 years, and our understanding of the diagnosis, prevention, and management of heart failure has evolved substantially during this time period. Specific areas of this review include heart failure risk factors, management of comorbid conditions, acute heart failure management, chronic heart failure management, advanced heart failure, device therapy, lifestyle modification, and medication and therapy management, including medication adherence. Key consensus guidelines and statements are also included. This bibliography of key heart failure papers aims to provide clinicians and their trainees with a valuable clinical reference resource and teaching tool that may be used to optimize the care of patients with heart failure.

Glucose-Lowering Therapies for Cardiovascular Risk Reduction in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: State-of-the-Art Review

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major cardiovascular (CV) risk factor. Although antihyperglycemic therapies have typically focused on glycemic control, a paradigm shift for the treatment of T2DM has occurred, with an increased focus on CV risk reduction. Clinicians should base their clinical decisions on the beneficial effects of specific glucose-lowering agents on CV outcomes, while avoiding those therapeutic strategies with potential detrimental effects. Importantly, the presence of comorbidities (eg, established cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, obesity) should also guide the clinical decision toward therapies proven to reduce CV outcomes in that specific population. In this state-of-the-art review resulting from a comprehensive literature search (Pubmed, Google Scholar), we summarize the evidence related to the CV outcomes trials reported in the past several decades. Finally, we propose a therapeutic plan for patients with T2DM, suggesting the use of specific glucose-lowering agents based on the characteristics and presence of comorbidities of the individual patient.

Rationale and design of the Virginia Commonwealth University-Anakinra Remodeling Trial-3 (VCU-ART3): A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, multicenter study

There is clear association between the intensity of the acute inflammatory response during acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and adverse prognosis after AMI. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine released during AMI and involved in adverse remodeling and heart failure (HF). We describe a study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of IL-1 blockade using an IL-1 receptor antagonist (anakinra) during the acute phase of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The Virginia Commonwealth University-Anakinra Remodeling Trial-3 (VCU-ART3; http://www.ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01950299) is a phase 2, multicenter, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial comparing anakinra 100 mg once or twice daily vs matching placebo (1:1:1) for 14 days in 99 patients with STEMI. Patients who present to the hospital with STEMI within 12 hours of symptom onset will be eligible for enrollment. Patients will be excluded for a history of HF (functional class III-IV), severe valvular disease, severe kidney disease (stage 4-5), active infection, recent use of immunosuppressive drugs, active malignancy, or chronic autoimmune/auto-inflammatory diseases. We will measure the difference in the area under the curve for C-reactive protein between admission and day 14, separately comparing each of the anakinra groups with the placebo group. The P value will be considered significant if <0.025 to adjust for multiple comparisons. Patients will also be followed for up to 12 months from enrollment to evaluate cardiac remodeling (echocardiography), cardiac function (echocardiography), and major adverse cardiovascular outcomes (cardiovascular death, MI, revascularization, and new onset of HF).