Cardiac Pharmacology: Drugs for Heart Failure (1)

Question 1

Increases Contractility

Answer 1

Digoxin - used for symptomatic treatment
Dobutamine - used in acute decompensated HF
Milrinone - used in acute decompensated HF

Question 2

Reduces Preload

Answer 2

Diuretics (e.g.furosemide) - used for symptomatic treatment
Vasodilators (e.g. nitrates, hydralazine)
ACE inhibitors/ARBs - proven to have mortality and morbidity benefits

Question 3

Reduces Afterload

Answer 3

Diuretics (e.g.furosemide) - used for symptomatic treatment
Vasodilators (e.g. nitrates, hydralazine)
ACE inhibitors/ARBs - proven to have mortality and morbidity benefits
Beta Blockers (e.g. metoprolol succinate, bisoprolol, carvedilol) - proven to have mortality and morbidity benefits