Drug regimes for acute cardiogenic pulmonary oedema

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease management has met with success through programmes such as the National Service Framework for Coronary Heart Disease. However, this has led to increased survival and therefore higher prevalence of patients living with impaired cardiac function. Acute cardiogenic pulmonary oedema (ACPO) is one of a number of distinct clinical conditions that result from abnormal cardiac function, primarily referred to as acute heart failure. This article will review current evidence-based pharmacological management of ACPO and make recommendations for future practice in prehospital care. Current drugs used in both prehospital and emergency care will be analysed for safety and efficacy in the management of ACPO.