Current trends in cardiovascular pharmacology

To help resolve abnormalities in cardiovascular function, many different types of drugs have been developed. Only recently, however, has there been increased emphasis on determining flow these agents decrease morbidity and mortality. In some cases, standard drug therapy has been challenged somewhat by newer drugs or new applications of existing drugs that seem to provide better outcomes in terms of disease progression and survival. The purpose of this article is to provide an update on contemporary pharmacologic management of three common conditions: hypertension, congestive heart failure, and myocardial ischemia/infarction. Physical therapists should be aware of the rationale for using specific drugs in each condition and that these medications can have positive therapeutic effects and adverse side effects that can influence the patient's response to physical therapy.