The drug effectively lowered heart rate but did not improve outcomes in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
Observational studies show an association between elevated heart rate and adverse outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease. Ivabradine, which inhibits the pacemaker current in the sinoatrial node, reduces heart rate without affecting blood pressure or myocardial contractility. In previous trials, ivabradine has reduced angina incidence in patients with symptomatic coronary artery disease (CAD) and has improved outcomes in patients with systolic heart failure (HF).
In a new, manufacturer-funded, double-blind trial, 19,102 patients (mean age, 65; 72.4% men) with documented stable CAD, no HF or left ventricular systolic dysfunction, and a resting heart rate ≥70 beats per minute (mean 77 bpm) were randomized to receive ivabradine or plac…
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresConsultant/Advisory BoardBristol Myers Squibb; CPC Clinical Research
Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; American College of Cardiology Self-Assessment Program (SAP)
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Cardiology (Chair, Innovations Committee)
DisclosuresConsultant/Advisory BoardBristol Myers Squibb; CPC Clinical Research
Grant/Research SupportNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; American College of Cardiology Self-Assessment Program (SAP)
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Cardiology (Chair, Innovations Committee)