Levosimendan improves renal function in acute decompensated heart failure: possible underlying mechanisms

Aims The cardio-renal syndrome plays a critical role in acute heart failure (HF). Levosimendan, an inodilator drug, has a positive but controversial effect on kidney. Our aim was to evaluate its effects on both renal and systemic haemodynamic parameters as well as on renal function, explaining the possible mechanisms involved. Methods and results Patients with acute decompensated HF, moderate renal impairment, wedge pressure >20 mmHg and EF