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PHARMACOECONOMICS ACE inhibitors underused in HF

Many patients with heart failure who are eligible for ACE inhibitor therapy do not receive such treatment, say researchers from the University of Glasgow, UK.

Their audit of ACE inhibitor use at a university teaching hospital showed that 12% of patients with confirmed moderate or severe left ventricular dysfunction and no contraindication for such treatment had never received an ACE inhibitor. The researchers express concern that, even at a university teaching hospital, many patients 'remain inadequately treated' .

However, the study also showed that more patients treated by cardiologists received ACE inhibitor treatment, compared with those seen by a general practitioner (77 vs 53%, respectively). Furthermore, the dosage was adequate more often among patients treated by cardiologists (48 vs 31 %). Cardiologists 'may be more effective (and cost-effective) at looking after patients with heart failure' , conclude the researchers. 'The consequences of this for a cash-strapped but evidence-based health service need hardly be spelt out' , they add.

Davie AP. McMurray JJ. ACE inhibitors and heart failure in hospital: any difference between cardiologists and general physicians? Postgraduate Medical Joumal7S: 219-222. Apr 1999 1007 .....

Inpharma-'2 Jun 1999 No. 1191 117~32419911191-()()()41$01.()(f Adlslnternatlonal LimIted 1999. All rights reserved