Post-discharge therapies in AHF: a new STRONG (HF) piece of the puzzle

Acute heart failure (AHF) is a major cause of hospitalization in the elderly and requires prompt treatment. The first phase of treatment is to relieve congestion, followed by guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT). Recent studies have shown that sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), and intravenous iron therapy improve outcomes after AHF hospitalization. The STRONG-HF trial is a recent study showing that rapid up-titration of GDMT before discharge reduces the risk of 180-day all-cause mortality or heart failure rehospitalization. To achieve optimal doses for reduction of rehospitalization and death, more decongestion, and better quality of life, it is important to closely monitor patients and adjust doses as needed. This review will focus on recent publications on therapy initiated immediately after an AHF event.