Haemodynamic effects of beta blockade in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy using Sectral (acebutolol; M & B 17803A)

Abstract

The immediate haemodynamic effects of Sectral (acebutolol; M&B 17803A) were measured in eight patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HOCUM) after intravenous administration of 10 mg and then an additional 20 mg of the drug. Resting heart rate decreased (-8%) and stroke and cardiac index were reduced (-20%) after the 30-mg dose. Peak LVdp/dt, V_max, and ejection fraction were slightly depressed. Sectral reduced left ventricular outflow obstruction in systole and the early- and end-diastolic pressures. End-systolic vlueme increased and ventricular distensibility improved. The rate of change of instantaneous stiffness of the left ventricle (slope of the diastolic pressure-volume curve) remained constant.