This document discusses congestive heart failure and cardiotonics. It begins by defining heart failure and its causes. It then focuses on congestive heart failure, symptoms, and compensatory physiological responses. The aim of treatment is to reduce cardiac workload, relieve pulmonary congestion, and increase contractility. Cardiotonics, also called cardiac glycosides, are discussed as a treatment option. Digitalis is a cardiotonic that increases cardiac output and strength of contraction through inhibition of sodium-potassium ATPase pumps. Side effects and interactions are also summarized.