Sex differences in response to chronic heart failure therapies.
Sex-related differences in clinical and laboratory characteristics, course and prognosis are well documented in patients with heart failure. However, most information regarding heart failure therapies has been obtained from studies conducted primarily in men. Reviewing the existing literature indicates that the recommendations regarding pharmacological and device therapies should apply similarly to men and women. One possible exception, however, is the possibility of more benefit derived from angiotensin receptor blockers in women, and from angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in men. Future clinical trials should be conducted either exclusively in women or have a larger representation of women to insure the adequate assessment of the potential benefit versus risk in women.
Ghali
Jalal K
JK
University Health Care Center, Wayne State University, 4201 St. Antoine, 2E, Detroit, MI 48201, USA. jghali@med.wayne.edu
Lindenfeld
JoAnn
J
D047228:Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D018450:Disease Progression; D005260:Female; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000401:mortality; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011379:Prognosis; D012737:Sex Factors; D016019:Survival Analysis
D047228:Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors