Beta-blockers and spironolactone in heart failure.

Neurohormonal antagonism is now recognized as an essential treatment modality for heart failure. As a prime example, the benefits of blocking the renin-angiotensin system with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors are clearly established for all four New York Heart Association classes. In this clinical trials review, we discuss two other therapies with neurohormonal targets: beta-blockers and the sympathetic nervous system, and the aldosterone antagonist spironolactone.