Some people with heart failure or cardiomyopathy may need to receive intravenous (IV) drug therapy after they leave the hospital. The drugs currently being used for this therapy are Dobutamine and Milrinone. These drugs work to increase the force of the contraction of your heart. This helps to increase the amount of blood that goes to the other major organs and systems of your body. The effects of these drugs have been shown to last past the time of infusion and may even improve the function of the heart.
Your cardiologist will decide which drug is best for you and how often you need to receive it. Some people will receive weekly infusions, others more or less frequently. Some come to the hospital; others, on occasion, receive this therapy at home. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best place for you to receive your treatment.
The procedure for this therapy is basically the same no matter which drug you receive. You will be weighed, and blood will be drawn to monitor your electrolytes and kidney function. Other tests may be done as well.
You may be connected to a heart monitor to monitor your heart rhythm. Your blood pressure and heart rate will be taken frequently, as will an accurate measure of the liquids you take in and put out during this treatment.
Your medication will be given through an IV (intravenous) line with the use of an infusion pump. Treatments usually last between 4-12 hours. Healthful snacks may be provided for the longer treatments. You are welcome to bring your own lunch if you prefer.
During the treatment, your nurse will listen to your heart and lung sounds, check for fluid retention, and ask you questions about how you are coping with your heart failure. Your lab results will be reviewed and any abnormal findings will be reported to your doctor.
When the infusion is complete, the medication will be stopped, vital signs checked and if your pulse and blood pressure are stable, the IV line will be taken out.
If you have questions about your condition, medications, diet, water retention, etc., please use this time to ask your nurse and doctor any questions you might have. It is important for you to understand your disease and understand what you can do to help keep your symptoms under control, keep as active as possible and enjoy the things you want to do.
For more information call the Community Medical Center Congestive Heart Failure coordinator, Claire Tahta, at (406) 327-4136