Which medications may improve symptoms of heart failure in an infant?

The selection of furosemide, digoxin, and enalapril as medications that may improve symptoms of heart failure in an infant is rooted in their pharmacological actions and how they address the underlying issues associated with heart failure.

Furosemide is a loop diuretic that helps reduce fluid overload by promoting diuresis, which can alleviate symptoms like edema and respiratory distress that often accompany heart failure. By reducing the volume of fluid in circulation, furosemide helps to unload the heart and improve overall heart function.

Digoxin is a cardiac glycoside that increases the contractility of the heart muscle (positive inotropic effect), which is particularly beneficial in heart failure where the heart may not be pumping effectively. Additionally, digoxin can help control the heart rate, especially in cases of tachycardia, thereby improving cardiac output and relieving symptoms of heart failure.

Enalapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that helps to lower blood pressure and decrease the workload on the heart. By preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, it causes vasodilation and reduces afterload, which is the resistance the heart must overcome to pump blood. This can lead to improved