A system and method for stimulating a human heart including a sensing module coupled through a lead to an electrode associated with a tissue of the human heart for sensing electrical activity of the heart. A controller module may be coupled to the sensing module. The controller module may select between a temporary stimulation therapy and a chronic stimulation therapy. Also included is a therapy module coupled to the controller, the therapy module communicating a plurality of anodic pulses to the heart through the lead when providing the temporary stimulation therapy. The amplitude, frequency, and duration of the anodic pulses may be varied, and biphasic pacing may also be used. The electrode may be a drug-eluting electrode for delivery of a drug. After an event occurs, the controller module may transition to the chronic stimulation therapy that may include cathodic stimulation.