The role of triple therapy in patients with chronic stable angina pectoris

Circulation
|June 1, 1987
PubMed

Insights

For chronic stable angina, triple therapy with beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and nitrates may benefit select patients. However, vasodilation side effects and patient suitability require careful consideration.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Beta-blockers and calcium-channel blockers are effective monotherapies for chronic stable angina pectoris.
  • Some patients remain symptomatic despite monotherapy and benefit from combined treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness and limitations of combined and triple therapy regimens for chronic stable angina.
  • To assess the role of calcium channel blockers and nitrates in managing refractory angina symptoms.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing studies on combination therapy (beta-blockers and nitrates, beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers).
  • Analysis of evidence regarding triple therapy (beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and nitrates).

Main Results:

  • Combination therapy with beta-blockers and nitrates or calcium channel blockers offers benefits for symptomatic patients.
  • Triple therapy may provide additional benefit for patients refractory to dual therapy, but vasodilation side effects like orthostatic hypotension are a concern.
  • Limited long-term data exists for calcium blocker-nitrate combinations.

Conclusions:

  • Triple therapy can be valuable for selected chronic stable angina patients unresponsive to dual therapy.
  • Caution is advised in patients with reduced left ventricular function or conduction system disease due to potential vasodilation side effects and exclusion from studies.

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