Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Heart failure notes

Medications
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. enalapril (Vasotec), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) and captopril (Capoten).
Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). losartan (Cozaar) and valsartan (Diovan). They may be an alternative for people who can't tolerate ACE inhibitors.
Digoxin (Lanoxin). Ionotropic and dechronotropic. It also tends to slow the heartbeat. Digoxin reduces heart failure symptoms and improves your ability to live with the condition.
Beta blockers. carvedilol (Coreg), metoprolol (Lopressor) and bisoprolol (Zebeta). Reduce signs and symptoms also reduce the risk of some arrthmias. 
Diuretics. Bumetanide (Bumex) and furosemide (Lasix). Reduces LE and pulmonary edema. watch potassium and magnesium. consider mineral supplements. monitor levels of potassium and magnesium.
Aldosterone antagonists. potassium-sparing diuretics. spironolactone (Aldactone) and eplerenone (Inspra). Slows remodeling. Watch for hyperkalemia.