Current treatment and future directions in heart failure.
Recent research in the pathophysiology of congestive heart failure has focused on the blockade of neurohormonal systems. Large clinical trials have clearly demonstrated morbidity and mortality benefits of angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors and beta blockers. Indeed, all patients with heart failure should be treated with these agents unless there is a specific contraindication otherwise. Despite this treatment, however, mortality from heart failure remains high. Current investigation is now focused on other pathophysiological mechanisms and the interruption of these pathways.
Wells
Gretchen
G
Cardiology Section, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157-1045, USA.
Little
William C
WC
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000818:Animals; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005544:Forecasting; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors