Amrinone

General information

Amrinone is an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase type III, and has a positive inotropic effect. Its adverse effects [ ] include thrombocytopenia (10%), hypotension, tachydysrhythmias (sometimes resulting in syncope and death) (9%), worsening cardiac ischemia (7%), worsening heart failure (15%), gastrointestinal disturbances (39%), neurological complications (17%), liver damage (7%), fever (6%), nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, hyperuricemia, flaking of the skin, brown discoloration of the nails, and reduced tear secretions. The figures in parentheses are taken from a study of the use of amrinone in 173 patients with chronic ischemic heart disease or idiopathic cardiomyopathies [ ].

Other reported adverse effects include acute pleuropericardial effusions, perforated duodenal ulcer, acute myositis and pulmonary infiltrates, vasculitis with pulmonary infiltrates and jaundice, influenza-like illnesses, chest pain, headache, dizziness, anxiety, maculopapular rash, and night sweats [ ].