Does Ascorbic Acid Reduce Sympathoexcitation in CHF?

In CHF central sympathetic activity is increased. ROS formation seems to play a role in this process. This study analyzes the effect of vitamin C as an antioxidant on central sympathetic activity in CHF

Inclusion Criteria:

• Heart failure of at least New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II
• Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <= 40%
• Age 20-80 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Necessity of short-term PCI, CABG or heart transplantation,
• Chronic disease of the autonomic nervous system,
• diabetes mellitus,
• use of tricyclic antidepressant drugs and/or a-adrenergic receptor antagonists.