Milrinone – Heart Failure, Side Effects, and Mechanism [Cardiac Medications 17/26] [Video]

Milrinone is a medication primarily used to treat heart-related conditions, specifically acute decompensated heart failure. It belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase inhibitors, which work by increasing the levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) within cells. cAMP is a molecule involved in regulating various cellular processes, including those related to heart muscle contraction and relaxation.

Milrinone’s main mechanism of action involves inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase-3 (PDE-3), which breaks down cAMP. By inhibiting PDE-3, milrinone increases the concentration of cAMP in cardiac muscle cells. This leads to enhanced contractility (the strength of the heart’s contractions) and dilation (widening) of blood vessels, which can improve blood flow and decrease the workload on the heart.

Due to its effects on heart function and blood vessel dilation, milrinone is often used in situations where the heart’s pumping ability is compromised, such as in acute decompensated heart failure, a condition in which the heart is temporarily unable to pump blood efficiently. It can also be used as a short-term treatment for patients with severe heart failure who haven’t responded well to other treatments.

Milrinone is typically administered intravenously in a hospital setting, as it requires careful monitoring and adjustment of the dose based on the patient’s response and any potential side effects. Common side effects of milrinone include arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), low blood pressure, headache, tremors, and nausea.

It’s important to note that milrinone is not a first-line treatment for heart failure and is usually reserved for cases where other treatments have not been effective. As with any medication, its use should be supervised by a qualified healthcare professional who can assess the patient’s condition and make appropriate decisions regarding its administration.