Current treatment of heart failure

European and American guidelines were published in 2005 that comprehensively summarised the evidence supporting currently recommended diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in HF. The need for these updates reflects the continuing progress in the management of this condition. In this article we briefly overview the current evidence-based treatment of HF. We focus on patients with reduced left ventricular systolic function, as there is no firmly evidence-based treatment for HF with preserved systolic function. Our review discusses treatments shown to favourably modify the natural history of HF when added to diuretic treatment. Diuretics should be used, as needed, to prevent sodium and water retention that can lead to peripheral and pulmonary oedema. Although diuretic treatment is empirical rather than evidence-based, it is widely agreed that the minimum dose needed to maintain ‘dry weight’ should be used.