Digitalis therapy in patients with heart failure and sinus rhythm
Dickstein, K.; Larsen, A.I.
Tidsskrift for den Norske Laegeforening Tidsskrift for Praktisk Medicin Ny Raekke 111(26): 3180-3182
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-2001 PMID: 1948943 Document Number: 368526
The role of digitalis therapy in patients with sinus rhythm and mild to moderate heart failure has been a subject of controversy. This review critically examines the relevant literature and specifically evaluates trials in this patient population. The pharmacokinetics and the pharmacodynamics of the most commonly prescribed agents are briefly discussed. The available evidence supports the use of this agent in patients with sinus rhythm and clinical signs of systolic dysfunction. Digitalis is not recommended as a routine when the primary cause of heart failure is diastolic dysfunction. The use of digitalis therapy in combination with diuretics and vasodilator therapy deserves further attention.