Role of antibiotics for the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the data regarding the use of antibiotic therapy for the prevention of cardiovascular events.


METHODS
Pertinent literature was identified through a MEDLINE search (1966-September 2001) and through other secondary literature databases and/or bibliographies of pertinent articles.


RESULTS
Cardiovascular disease is a common cause of morbidity and mortality among the general population, with well-defined risk factors (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, cigarette smoking, genetic predisposition). Clinical data evaluating the association between the aforementioned risk factors and the development of atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular disease are substantial; however, these risk factors may only partially explain the high prevalence of cardiovascular disease. The presence of Chlamydia pneumoniae within atherosclerotic lesions has been documented and may be an additional risk factor for the development and progression of cardiovascular disease.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of primary and secondary prevention trials have shown conflicting evidence with regard to the beneficial effects of antibiotic therapy to reduce cardiovascular events. Currently, the lack of certainty in published data does not support the use of antibiotics for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Clinicians should continue to emphasize interventions proven to reduce adverse cardiovascular events such as smoking cessation, reduction of hyperlipidemia, and control of hypertension.
Gabay
Michael P
MP
Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA. mgabay@uic.edu
Jain
Rupali
R
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001161:Arteriosclerosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000382:microbiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000382:microbiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D023521:Chlamydophila Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D016993:Chlamydophila pneumoniae; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents