Products
Nesiritide was commercially available in many countries as a powder for the preparation of an infusion solution (Noratak) and had been approved since 2003. Because of a new study of 7141 patients that failed to show a difference between nesiritide and placebo, the product was withdrawn from the market on Dec. 31, 2011 (O’Connor et al, 2011).
Structure and Properties
Nesiritide is a recombinant human B-type natriuretic peptide (hBNP). It has the same sequence as the endogenous peptide hormone produced by the ventricular myocardium. It is present in drugs as nesiritide citrate.
Effects
Nesiritide (ATC C01DX19) is vasodilating, inhibits the renin-angiotensin system, and has natriuretic and diuretic properties.
Indications
Acute decompensated heart failure with resting dyspnea or with minimal activity and signs of pulmonary congestion including pulmonary edema.