title: [Value and limitations of new cardiotonic agents].
abstract: New cardiotonic agents are an original approach in the treatment of severe heart failure. They can be classified into two groups: --beta-adrenergic agonists which stimulate beta-adrenergic receptors and, therefore, increase cyclic AMP production and intracellular calcium concentration; --phosphodiesterase inhibitors which block the cyclic AMP intracellular degradation pathway. Rapid tachyphylaxis may occur with beta-adrenergic agonists through a down-regulation phenomenon and, therefore, limits the value of this group to short-term treatment. Several different biochemical compounds are under evaluation in the second group. Short-term effects appear beneficial but cardiac side-effects may occur. The value and indications of these drugs in long-term treatment of chronic congestive heart failure remain to be determined.
authors.forename: Y
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Grosgogeat
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Komajda
mesh_terms: D002316:Cardiotonic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans
chemical_list: D002316:Cardiotonic Agents
vernacular_title: Intérêt et limites des nouveaux agents cardiotoniques.