The role of digitalis in patients with coronary artery disease

Although digitalis glycosides were introduced for the treatment of cardiac disorders almost 200 years ago, controversy persists regarding the relative role of these inotropic agents, particularly in patients with coronary artery disease in sinus rhythm. With the advent of more potent diuretics and the demonstrated benefit of vasodilators in left ventricular unloading, the relative worth of digitalis in patients with coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction is being re-examined.