What is the lab test of choice for patients on an ARNI medication?

The lab test of choice for patients on an ARNI (Angiotensin Receptor Neprilysin Inhibitor) medication is Pro BNP. This test measures the levels of the prohormone B-type natriuretic peptide in the blood, which is released in response to changes in pressure that occur when the heart is failing.

In the context of heart failure management, Pro BNP serves as a valuable biomarker for diagnosing heart failure, assessing its severity, and monitoring treatment effectiveness. When patients are on ARNI therapy, which includes drugs like sacubitril/valsartan, there is an expectation that the levels of natriuretic peptides may fluctuate. Hence, measuring Pro BNP provides a more specific indication of heart failure status and helps guide treatment decisions.

While BNP is also relevant in heart failure assessment, Pro BNP is preferred because it has a longer half-life and a more stable profile in patients treated with ARNI, making it a more reliable marker in this specific setting. Monitoring serum electrolytes and creatinine is essential for assessing renal function and electrolyte balance, but they do not specifically indicate heart failure status in the same way Pro BNP does.