Novel subcutaneous furosemide may be option in heart failure

(HealthDay)—A novel, pH-neutral furosemide formulation administered subcutaneously (SC) in outpatients with worsening heart failure appears to be safe and effective, according to a study published online Dec. 6 in JACC: Heart Failure.

In a phase II study, Nisha A. Gilotra, M.D., from the Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, and colleagues randomized outpatients presenting with decompensated heart failure to receive a single dose of furosemide SC ([21 patients] or intravenous (IV, 19 patients]).

The researchers found that the six-hour urine output was similar between the two groups (P = 0.84), as was mean weight loss (P = 0.95). However, at hour two, hourly urine output was significantly higher in the IV group (P = 0.02), and higher in the SC group at hour six (P = 0.005). The SC group had higher natriuresis (P = 0.05). The two groups had similar 30-day hospitalization rates.

"The findings of this study corroborate the design premise that a higher diuretic efficiency can be achieved by slower infusion compared to that of the IV bolus," the authors write. "Additionally, these results have significant implications for the outpatient management of heart failure."

scPharmaceuticals, a manufacturer of furosemide, funded the study.