[Choosing the right medication for the right patient].
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.
Durand
Eric
E
Service de cardiologie médicale, Hôpital européen Georges Pompidou, 75908 Paris.
Kadri
Zena
Z
Danchin
Nicolas
N
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
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; D019161:Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors; D010975:Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors