|
|
Unstable Angina
Alternate Names : Accelerating Angina, Angina - Unstable, New-Onset Angina, Progressive Angina
See all Pictures & Images
Unstable Angina Treatment
An individual experiencing unstable angina usually requires rest and hospitalization to prevent complications.
A cornerstone of therapy for unstable angina is antiplatelet medication (to prevent platelet aggregation, which is the initial event in the blood circulation leading to clot formation within a vessel). One antiplatelet agent widely used is aspirin. More recently, a medication called clopidogrel has shown in clinical studies to be even more effective than aspirin in reducing the likelihood of heart attacks. Clopidogrel and aspirin may be used together. They are also often administered during heart attacks.
Heparin and nitroglycerin are also given during unstable angina, often sublingually (under the tongue) or intravenously (IV). Other medications include beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, anti-anxiety medications, and medications to control blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms.
Surgery may be recommended. CABG (coronary artery bypass grafting) or PTCA (balloon angioplasty), often with the implantation of a stent, may be necessary.
Today's Top News Stories | | FDA Backs Cholesterol Drug Vytorin - Jan 08, 2009, 17:00 Review says it lowered bad cholesterol more effectively than Zocor. | | Common Flu Strain Resistant to Popular Antiviral Drug - Jan 08, 2009, 19:00 But other medications are available that work, CDC officials stress. | | Many Turn Blind Eye to Racism - Jan 08, 2009, 17:00 They're not quick to condemn hurtful comments, study suggests. | | Studies Challenge Framingham Risk Score - Jan 08, 2009, 19:00 The long-standing assessment for heart risk may not be accurate in some cases. | | Clinical Trials Update: Jan. 8, 2009 - Jan 08, 2009, 10:12
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Neurologic Disorders
- Seizure Disorders
|
|
Jump to another section
Definition Unstable Angina Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors Unstable Angina Symptoms & Signs Unstable Angina Prevention Unstable Angina Diagnosis & Tests Unstable Angina Treatment Unstable Angina Prognosis Unstable Angina Complications Calling Your Health Care Provider
Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
Angina Angina - Stable Arrhythmias Blood Clots Coronary Artery Spasm Diabetes Heart Attack Lipid Disorders - Acquired
Tests & Exams
Blood Pressure Coronary Angiography ECG HDL LDL Platelet Count
Surgery & Procedures
Angioplasty Heart Bypass Surgery
Other Topics
Chest Pain Cholesterol High Blood Pressure Obesity Physical Examination Stress and Anxiety
Review Date : 5/8/2002
Reviewed By : Elena Sgarbossa, M.D., Department of Cardiology, Rush-Presbyterian St. Luke's Medical Ctr., Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|