The Effect of Neprilysin (LCZ696) on Exercise Tolerance in Patients With Heart Failure

Studies with new drugs in the treatment of heart failure (HF), such as the combination of valsartan/sacubitril, also known as LCZ696, have demonstrated important clinical impact on the morbidity and mortality outcomes in HF population. However, the effect of LCZ696 on the pathophysiological mechanisms of HF such as exercise tolerance (peak VO2) and peripheral muscle blood flow is not known. Since LCZ696 is a new drug with promising effects on the treatment of HF, the objective of the present study will be to evaluate the effect of LCZ696 in patients with HF on: 1) peak VO2, 2) 6-minute walk test, 3) peripheral muscle blood flow, 4) muscle strength, and 5) body composition.