A Phase II Trial to Assess Hemodynamic Effects of Istaroxime in Pts With Worsening HF and Reduced LV Systolic Function

The purpose of this study is to determine the minimum effective dose of Istaroxime, in patients requiring hospitalization for deterioration of chronic heart failure and left ventricular systolic dysfunction. This goal will be reached by comparing the hemodynamic effect of three different doses of the drug versus placebo. Efficacy will be measured as a change in Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure from pre-infusion to the last assessment at six hours intravenous infusion.Secondary objectives will be to evaluate safety, tolerability and efficacy on other main hemodynamic parameters, echocardiographic and echo-doppler measurements, plus preliminary pharmacokinetics of the drug.