Pharmacotherapy Using Cardiovascular Agents: Focus on the Top 200 Drugs

Adam R Schnepp and Diane Nykamp

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Objective: To summarize pharmacologic agents available to treat cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.

Data Sources: Drugs used in the management of cardiovascular disease were identified from a list of the top 200 drugs of 2008 by number of prescriptions dispensed. Relevant articles were obtained via a MEDLINE search (2000–March 2010) using the key words pharmacy technician, hypertension, heart failure, hyperlipidemia, Β-blocker, ACE inhibitor, angiotensin receptor blocker, diuretic, calcium-channel blocker, clonidine, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor, ezetimibe, fenofibrate, niacin, clopidogrel, warfarin, isosorbide mononitrate, and digoxin. In addition, evidence-based practice guidelines, monographs, package inserts, and other secondary sources were reviewed.

Study Selection and Data Extraction: Relevant information regarding dosages, trade/generic names, pharmacology, and adverse effects associated with common agents to treat cardiovascular disease was included.

Data Synthesis: Despite falling mortality rates, cardiovascular disease continues to be the leading cause of death in the US and is a significant cause of morbidity. Pharmacy technicians should be familiar with the basic pharmacology of the most commonly prescribed medications. Selected agents used to treat heart failure and hypertension from the following classes of drugs were reviewed: Β-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), diuretics, calcium-channel blockers, and a centrally acting agent. Additionally, common drugs used to treat hyperlipidemia, including hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, fibric acids, and niacin, were reviewed. Antiplatelet agents, selected vasodilators, warfarin, and digoxin were also reviewed.

CONCLUSIONS: Drug therapy is the key to successful management of cardiovascular disease. Health-care providers, including knowledgeable pharmacy technicians, can assist patients in the proper use of agents in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

J Pharm Technol 2010;26:213-9