Pharmacological treatments of heart failures

Abstract

The cornerstone of treatment for heart failure with decreased ejection fraction is ACE inhibitors and beta blockers. If the patient is still exhibiting symptoms, aldosterone antagonists are added. These three medications lower morbidity and death. If symptoms continue, digoxin and diuretics may also be helpful. A developing substitute for ACE inhibitors in heart failure with a low ejection fraction is valsartan and sacubitril. To provide the greatest benefit on symptoms and survival, drug doses must be titrated to maximally tolerated doses. There is no evidence that any medications can prolong life in people with heart f ailure and preserved ejection fraction.