Levosimendan
Levosimendan is a calcium sensitizer and potassium channel opener. It increases cardiac contractility (positive inotropy) by sensitizing troponin C to calcium without increasing intracellular calcium levels. It also induces vasodilation (via opening ATP-sensitive potassium channels), which reduces both preload and afterload, improving overall hemodynamic performance.
Dosage by Body Weight
For intravenous use only. Must be diluted prior to administration. Typically initiated with a loading dose of 6-12 mcg/kg over 10 minutes, followed by a continuous infusion of 0.05 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min for 24 hours. Dosage is adjusted based on patient hemodynamic response and tolerance.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not routinely recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy in pediatric populations under 18 years have not been fully established. Use is highly restricted and off-label in specialized pediatric intensive care.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min continuous infusion
- Frequency
- Continuous IV
- Tracking Notes
- Off-label pediatric ICU use. Administer under strict hemodynamic monitoring. Loading dose is generally omitted in children to prevent hypotension.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min continuous infusion
- Frequency
- Continuous IV
- Tracking Notes
- Requires continuous monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG. Correct hypokalemia and hypovolemia prior to infusion.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min continuous infusion
- Frequency
- Continuous IV
- Tracking Notes
- Titrate carefully based on clinical response and blood pressure tolerability. Monitor renal and hepatic function.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 0.05 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min continuous infusion
- Frequency
- Continuous IV
- Tracking Notes
- Ensure adequate hydration. Discontinue or reduce infusion rate if severe hypotension or tachycardia occurs.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not routinely recommended | N/A | Safety and efficacy in pediatric populations under 18 years have not been fully established. Use is highly restricted and off-label in specialized pediatric intensive care. |
| 5-7 kg | 0.05 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min continuous infusion | Continuous IV | Off-label pediatric ICU use. Administer under strict hemodynamic monitoring. Loading dose is generally omitted in children to prevent hypotension. |
| 8-10 kg | 0.05 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min continuous infusion | Continuous IV | Requires continuous monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG. Correct hypokalemia and hypovolemia prior to infusion. |
| 11-15 kg | 0.05 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min continuous infusion | Continuous IV | Titrate carefully based on clinical response and blood pressure tolerability. Monitor renal and hepatic function. |
| 16-20 kg | 0.05 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min continuous infusion | Continuous IV | Ensure adequate hydration. Discontinue or reduce infusion rate if severe hypotension or tachycardia occurs. |
Formulation
Purpose
Short-term treatment of acutely decompensated severe chronic heart failure in situations where conventional therapy is not sufficient, and in cases where inotropic support is considered appropriate.
Generic Name
LevosimendanBranded Drug Names
Levosimendan is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.