Algorithm for the treatment of diastolic and systolic heart failure

Algorithm for the treatment of diastolic or systolic dysfunction. (ACE = angiotensin-converting enzyme; NYHA = New York Heart Association; IV = intravenous.) [Source]

*--Diuretics are best used to treat acute congestive heart failure and as adjunctive therapy for hypertension.
†--Note that the likelihood of angioedema and renal insufficiency is increased with ACE inhibitors and angiotensin-receptor blockers. Watch for late-breaking results from clinical trials on the efficacy of angiotensin-receptor blockers alone and in combination with ACE inhibitors compared with ACE inhibitors alone.
‡--The addition of milrinone is preferred in patients already receiving a beta blocker.

Further reading:

1. Coodley E. Newer drug therapy for congestive heart failure. Arch Intern Med 1999;159:1177-83.