Inotropic Stimulation and Myocardial Energetics

Inotropic stimulation of the myocardium, as well as vasodilation and diuresis as essential principles in the treatment of congestive heart failure have recently met with considerable criticism and reevaluation. It is generally agreed that unloading of the heart, either through vasodilation and/or diuresis, improves the working conditions of the dilated, failing heart. It reduces myocar­ dial oxyge...