High-impact articles related to the pharmacotherapeutic management of systolic heart failure.

This compilation is part of a series of five articles identifying important literature in cardiovascular pharmacotherapy. This list focuses on pharmacotherapeutic management of acute decompensated and chronic heart failure. Most of the cited works present the results of landmark clinical studies that have shaped the management of patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Limited primary literature is available for some topics; thus, pertinent review articles also are listed. In addition, consensus documents formed by expert panels in the United States and Europe are reviewed. This compilation may serve as a teaching tool, reference resource, or update of the literature for pharmacy clinicians, physicians, and students.