Disclosed are adenosine A2 receptor agonists for use in increasing the contractile performance of a compromised myocardium in a mammal. The agonists are administered in a therapeutically effective amount. Also disclosed are additional compounds, e.g., an adenosine transport inhibitor, an inhibitor of adenosine metabolism or an adenosine A1 receptor antagonist, that potentiate the beneficial effect of the adenosine A2 receptor agonist when administered in conjunction with the agonist.