Hx
     CHF
     Left ventricular failure
Tx
     Nitroglycerin (NTG), either IV, sublingual or topical relieves the dyspnea and tachycardia associated with cargiogenic pulmonary edema by rapidly reducing preload
          Several studies have shown that it works quicker than morphine or loop diuretics
          Not for long-term management; only beneficial in acutely alleviating symptoms
          Use cautiously in patients with hypotension
     Beyond NTG, loop diuretics (furosemide) are the mainstay of therapy for decompensated heart failure and principally work by reducing total body volume
     May give hydralazine in combination with an oral nitrate to African American men with heart failure

Content on this page has not been checked for accuracy. The author's credentials have not been confirmed. Always use multiple peer-reviewed scholarly sources and good clinical judgement in your decision making.

The Compendium platform was created by David Kwinter, MD, CCFP(EM).

Dr. Kwinter is a Cayman Family Doctor. He runs a Family Medicine Clinic at Cayman Medical in George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands.