title: Evidence-based drug treatment of heart failure.
abstract: Modern management strategies have revolutionized the treatment of patients with acute and chronic heart failure (HF). Physicians should identify the risks and benefits of each drug or interventional option being considered for the treatment of HF. Inhibition of the neurohormonal axis with angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and beta-blockers has significantly improved morbidity and mortality of patients with chronic HF. An aggressive approach targeted at improving hemodynamics and end-organ function is warranted during acute exacerbations or decompensated heart failure. Immediate recognition and management of potentially reversible causes and simultaneous initiation of supportive therapy to augment the cardiac output are key elements to the successful treatment of acute heart failure.
authors.affiliation: Division of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Columbia School of Medicine, USA.
authors.forename: Sanjeev
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Wasson
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Fleming
authors.forename: Hanumanth K
authors.initials: HK
authors.lastname: Reddy
mesh_terms: D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D057911:Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004232:Diuretics; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D018570:Risk Assessment; D014665:Vasodilator Agents
chemical_list: D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D057911:Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; D004232:Diuretics; D014665:Vasodilator Agents