Part 7: Cardiovascular Pharmacology
Drugs for Heart and Vascular Disease
Cardiovascular drugs are among the most prescribed medications worldwide. They treat hypertension, heart failure, arrhythmias, angina, and thromboembolic disorders. Understanding their mechanisms is essential for managing the leading cause of death globally.
Topics in This Part
7.1 Antihypertensives
ACE inhibitors, ARBs, CCBs, diuretics, β-blockers
7.2 Antiarrhythmics
Vaughan-Williams classification, Na+/K+/Ca2+ channel blockers
7.3 Heart Failure Drugs
Digoxin, ARNI, β-blockers, diuretics, SGLT2 inhibitors
7.4 Antianginals
Nitrates, CCBs, β-blockers, ranolazine
7.5 Anticoagulants
Heparin, warfarin, DOACs, antiplatelets, fibrinolytics
7.6 Lipid-Lowering Agents
Statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, fibrates
Antiarrhythmic Classes
| Class | Mechanism | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Class I | Na+ channel block | Lidocaine, flecainide |
| Class II | β-blockade | Metoprolol, esmolol |
| Class III | K+ channel block | Amiodarone, sotalol |
| Class IV | Ca2+ channel block | Verapamil, diltiazem |