The overall emphasis of this training program is the therapeutic use of medications to prevent and treat acute cardiovascular diseases. The course duration is 5 days. Clinical case-based scenarios will be used as vehicles for in-depth discussions of safe and efficacious cardiovascular drug use in diverse populations. The symposium discusses evidence-based approaches to managing acute decompensated heart failure, cardiogenic shock, atrial and ventricular arrythmias, pulmonary hypertension, and acute coronary syndromes. Current standards of care as well as controversial issues will be discussed. Principles of optimal medication use, and effective clinical communications will be highlighted throughout the course.