Changes in systolic time intervals—a non‐invasive marker for the haemodynamic effects of sumatriptan

Aims This study assessed the use of systolic time intervals (STI) as a potential non‐invasive marker of the haemodynamic effects of sumatriptan, a 5HT₁ receptor agonist.

Methods Twenty‐six patients undergoing diagnostic cardiac catheterization participated. STIs were derived from haemodynamic pressure tracings at baseline, following placebo injection and following either subcutaneous (n=18) or intravenous injection (n=8) of sumatriptan.

Results Sumatriptan (i.v. or s.c.) was associated with significant increases in mean arterial pressure (95% C.I. 9,14mmHg, P=0.0001), total electromechanical systole (95% C.I.8,36ms, P<0.0001), pre‐ejection period (95%C.I. 8,21ms, P=0.0001) and left ventricular ejection time (95% C.I. 2,12ms, P=0.004).

Conclusion STI responses were consistent with sumatriptan‐induced changes in afterload. In summary, the measurement of STIs is a potential non‐invasive method of investigating the influence of serotonergic compounds on the cardiovascular system.

DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2125.1999.00121.x

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