Allopurinol in the complex therapy of acute decompensation of heart failure

Background. Acute decompensation of heart failure (ADHF) is a period of chronic HF, which is characterized by a rapid aggravation/onset of HF symptoms, requiring urgent hospitalization for intensive care and worsening the patient’s prognosis.

Aim. To evaluate the efficacy of allopurinol in patients with ADHF, hyperuricemia, and reduced glomerular filtration rate compared with standard of care for 6 months.

Materials and methods. We present the results of a 6-month follow-up for 72 patients with ADHF, hyperuricemia, and reduced filtration function of the kidneys, calculated using the CKD-EPI formula, divided equally into two groups: group 1 received standard of care for HF combined with a xanthine oxidase inhibitor – allopurinol, and group 2 received standard of care only. Allopurinol was administered to group 1 patients at an initial dose of 50 mg, on average, 24-48 hours after admission to the hospital, in addition to standard of care. The study included 72 patients, with an average age of 71.67 years in group 1 and 70.28 years in group 2. The indicators at the time of enrollment in the study, when HF compensation was achieved, and after 6 months were analyzed.

Results. The median length of hospital stay in the allopurinol group was 13 [12; 18] days vs. 14 [10; 15] days in the standard of care group (p = 0.283). At 6 months of follow-up, repeated hospitalizations due to ADHF were reported in both groups at a similar rate. During the entire follow-up period, one death was reported in the allopurinol group. Statistically significant decreases in the levels of N-terminal precursor of brain natriuretic peptide were observed in both groups (p < 0.001). Significant changes in C-reactive protein levels were found in both groups at discharge. The analysis of echocardiographic parameters revealed a significantly increased left ventricular ejection fraction, a reduction in inferior vena cava size, and a decrease in systolic pressure in the pulmonary artery in both groups. During the therapy, there was a significant increase in the walking test distance in both groups (p < 0.001), with no significant difference between the groups.

Conclusion. The results of the study indicate a positive effect of allopurinol on uric acid levels, with no additional benefits and effects on endpoints.