Unlike most cell-types in the body, cardiomyocytes do not replicate in adult life. Consequently myocardial infarction produces irreparable damage to the heart which in turn increases the likelihood of premature death. Recent trials indicate that immediate aspirin and thrombolytic therapy beneficially modify the natural history of myocardial infarction, reducing both short- and long-term mortality rates. However, the occurrence of early heart failure in as many as one third of patients continues to carry with it a particularly poor prognosis. Recent trials with ACE inhibitors indicate that delayed initiation (beyond 24 h) and long-term maintenance treatment of patients selected on the basis of either heart failure (AIRE Study) or an ejection fraction of less than 40% (SAVE Study) result in large reductions in all-cause mortality. Although the exact mechanism of this benefit remains uncertain the reduction of further myocyte death due to reinfarction or gradual toxic attrition has been suggested. The currently unreported ISIS-4 and GISSI-3 should provide additional information as to whether the clinical indications for ACE-inhibitor therapy should be extended to other patient groups.