Update of Recent Clinical Trials in Heart Failure and Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND: There are currently many on-going clinical trials assessing therapies for the treatment of patients with heart failure. AIMS: The purpose of this series of papers is to present concise summaries of current randomised trials in the field of heart failure and myocardial infarction (MI). METHODS: Data from large double-blind, placebo-controlled trials, which are on-going or have only recently been published, are given in a format allowing easy comparison. Where appropriate, data from smaller studies are included. RESULTS: Major studies which are examined in this issue include CIBIS II, MERIT-HF, RESOLVD, SPICE, VEST, MACH-1, ATLAS, RALES, CIDS and CASH. These trials assess the efficacy and safety of beta-blocker, angiotensin-II-receptor blocker, positive inotropic agent, calcium antagonist, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, aldosterone receptor blocker, and antiarrhythmic interventions in the treatment of heart failure. CONCLUSIONS: The presentation of data from these on-going trials should allow an up-to-date assessment, by physicians, of the most appropriate and effective treatment for patients with heart failure. It is evident that some therapies may play no further role in the treatment of heart failure, due to the increased risk of mortality associated with their administration, whilst others may convey significant benefits.