title: [Choosing the right medication for the right patient].
abstract: Over the past 15 years, the efficacy of several classes of medications on the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis has been documented. The objectives of medical therapy are triple: to avoid or control the evolution of the atherosclerotic process, control associated risk factors, and, whenever appropriate, to control symptoms. Four classes of medications have documented a major clinical benefit by decreasing mortality and severe adverse cardiovascular events: antiplatelet agents, beta-blockers, statins and ACE inhibitors. These medications should therefore constitute first line therapy. Beside the use of medications, life style changes (Mediterranean diet, physical exercise, smoking cessation) are also necessary.
authors.affiliation: Service de cardiologie médicale, Hôpital européen Georges Pompidou, 75908 Paris.
authors.forename: Eric
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Durand
authors.forename: Zena
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Kadri
authors.forename: Nicolas
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Danchin
mesh_terms: D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D050197:Atherosclerosis / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors