CVD Treatment

• Statins


  A class of drug used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood
• Coagulation


  The process of blood turning into a gel and forming a clot, often in response to a broken blood vessel to prevent blood loss
• Antihypertensives


  A class of drug used as a treatment for high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Cardiovascular disease (CVD)


  A term used to describe a group of diseases related to the heart and blood vessels
• ACE inhibitors

  Reduce blood pressure by blocking the conversion of Angiotensin I to Angiotensin II, causing arterial constriction; side effects include dizziness, cough, and heart arrhythmia
• Platelet inhibitors


  Prevent platelets clumping together, reducing the risk of blood clots and atheroma formation; aspirin is a platelet inhibitory drug but can cause stomach bleeding
• Anticoagulants


  Reduce the risk of clot formation; dosage needs to be carefully controlled to avoid uncontrolled bleeding

  Cannot get rid of existing blood clots
• Beta blockers


  Reduce the frequency and power of heart contractions by blocking the response of the heart to hormones; may increase the risk of diabetes
• Medical treatments of CVD

  • Anticoagulants
  • Statins
  • Platelet inhibitors
  • Antihypertensives
• Statins


  Reduce blood cholesterol levels by reducing the amount of LDL cholesterol produced in the liver; most effective when combined with a healthy diet
• Antihypertensives


  Reduce blood pressure; include beta blockers, diuretics, and ACE inhibitors
• Diuretics

  Increase the volume of urine, lowering blood volume and pressure; possible side effects include nausea, muscle cramps, and dizziness
• Benefits of antihypertensives

  Blood pressure can be monitored at home

  Combinations of antihypertensives can be given
• Risks of Antihypertensives

  Palpitations

  Fainting

  Headaches

  Drowsiness

  Depression
• Risks of Statins

  Increased risk of diabetes

  Muscle and joint pain

  Nosebleeds

  Headaches

  Nausea
• Risks of anticoagulants

  Fainting

  Excessive bleeding

  Swelling
• Risks of Platelet Inhibitors

  Rashes

  Diarrhoea

  Nausea

  Excessive bleeding