Classification of systemic therapies for potential stabilization of the vulnerable plaque to prevent acute myocardial infarction.
In this editorial, a classification of systemic therapies for potential plaque stabilization of vulnerable plaque to prevent acute myocardial infarction is proposed based on both biologic plausibility (a potential mechanism to explain the effect) and clinical evidence (i.e., whether the agent reduced acute myocardial infarction in well-designed clinical trials). All therapies possess biologic plausibility but are classified into groups I to IV based on clinical data.
Ambrose
John A
JA
Comprehensive Cardiovascular Center, Saint Vincent Catholic Medical Centers of New York, New York Medical College, New York, New York, USA. jamambrose@yahoo.com
D'Agate
David J
DJ
D003324:Coronary Artery Disease / Q000188:drug therapy*; D004358:Drug Therapy / Q000145:classification*; D006801:Humans; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000517:prevention & control*