Medical Management of Angina Pectoris

Abstract

Ischemic heart disease is nowadays the leading cause of death in the world and is most commonly presented as "Angina pectoris", characterised by chest pain and discomfort. Many strategies exist in the treatment of angina which include medical therapy and revascularization therapy (through PCI and CABG). The first line agents used in the medical management of angina are: nitrates, calcium channel blockers and beta blockers. Second line agents are the newer drugs such as ivabradine, nicorandil, trimethazidine, and fasudil. The importance of secondary prevention of future events is also vital and involves lifestyle modification, use of aspirin, statins, and ACEIs or ARBs.