Heart : official journal of the British Cardiac Society
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Comparative effects of valsartan and enalapril on cardiac sympathetic nerve activity and plasma brain natriuretic peptide in patients with congestive heart failure.
To evaluate the effects of valsartan on cardiac sympathetic nerve activity, plasma brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentration, cardiac function, and symptoms in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) by comparison with those of enalapril. ⋯ Plasma BNP concentration and (123)I-MIBG scintigraphic and echocardiographic parameters improved significantly after six months of treatment with valsartan. These findings indicate that valsartan can improve cardiac sympathetic nerve activity and left ventricular performance in patients with CHF.