Sacubitril/valsartan for the treatment of post-acute myocardial infarction patients with left ventricular systolic dysfucntion and/or pulmonary congestion – first line

Sacubitril/valsartan is currently in clinical development for the treatment of patients who have suffered a heart attack (acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and who have evidence of left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) and/or pulmonary congestion. LVSD means that the heart muscle does not contract effectively and therefore, less oxygen-rich blood is pumped out to the rest of the body. Patients who develop LVSD following an AMI have a higher risk of complications and sudden cardiac death. There remains a large unmet need for new therapies for these patients.
Sacubitril/valsartan is a dual combination drug targeting the RAAS and neprilysin systems. It is given orally in the form of a tablet. It contains two different active ingredients sacubitril and valsartan, that work independently to reduce blood pressure, protect the heart from developing scar tissue and reduce the strain on the heart. If licensed, sacubitril/valsartan may offer an additional treatment option for post-acute AMI patients with evidence of LVSD and/or pulmonary congestion.