What to try while congestive heart failure patients are still ambulatory

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Short of heart transplantation, there is still no way to stop progressive deterioration in patients whose heart cannot pump an adequate amount of blood. However, drug treatment can ease symptoms and thus improve quality of life, and some regimens appear to prolong survival. The authors summarize results of studies on the most commonly used drugs for congestive heart failure: vasodilators, diuretics, and cardiac glycosides. They also discuss other agents that have benefit in some circumstances and describe effective combination therapy.

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Notes on contributors

Stephen H. Jennison

Stephen H. Jennison, BSc, MRCP Dr Jennison (left) is assistant professor of medicine and associate director, Heart Failure/Heart Transplant Program, St Louis University Health Sciences Center. He is interested in the use of beta blockers and new oral inotropes in treatment of cardiac failure, as well as the use of cardiac rehabilitation techniques in this expanding patient population.

Leslie W. Miller

Leslie W. Miller, MD Dr Miller (right) is professor of medicine and director, Heart Failure/Heart Transplant Program, St Louis University Health Sciences Center.