Sex differences in response to chronic heart failure therapies

Abstract

Sex-related differences in clinical and laboratory characteristics, course and prognosis are well documented in patients with heart failure. However, most information regarding heart failure therapies has been obtained from studies conducted primarily in men. Reviewing the existing literature indicates that the recommendations regarding pharmacological and device therapies should apply similarly to men and women. One possible exception, however, is the possibility of more benefit derived from angiotensin receptor blockers in women, and from angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in men. Future clinical trials should be conducted either exclusively in women or have a larger representation of women to insure the adequate assessment of the potential benefit versus risk in women.

Keywords::

• gender
• heart failure
• medication
• sex
• therapy

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.