Cardiovascular Prevention and Pharmacotherapy

Most-download articles are from the articles published in 2022 during the last three month.

Review Articles

Calcium channel blockers for hypertension: old, but still useful: Eun Mi Lee; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2023;5(4):113-125. Published online October 30, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2023.5.e16

3,104 View
231 Download
1 Citations

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) constitute a heterogeneous class of drugs that can be divided into dihydropyridines (DHPs) and non-DHPs. DHP-CCBs are subcategorized into four generations based on the duration of activity and pharmacokinetics, while non-DHP-CCBs are subcategorized into phenylethylamine and benzodiazepine derivatives. DHP-CCBs are vascular-selective and function as potent vasodilators, whereas non-DHP-CCBs are cardiac-selective and are useful for treating tachyarrhythmia, but reduce cardiac contractility and heart rate. Traditional DHP-CCBs (nifedipine) mainly block L-type calcium channels, whereas novel CCBs block N-type (amlodipine) and/or T-type channels (efonidipine) in addition to L-type channels, leading to organ-protective effects. DHP-CCBs have a potent blood pressure–lowering effect and suppress atherosclerosis and coronary vasospasm. Diltiazem, a non-DHP-CCB, is highly effective for vasospasm control. CCBs reduce left ventricular hypertrophy and arterial stiffness. Amlodipine, a DHP-CCB, reduces blood pressure variability. L/N- and L/T-type CCBs combined with renin-angiotensin system blockers reduce proteinuria and improve kidney function compared with L-type CCBs. According to large-scale trials, DHP-CCBs reduce cardiovascular events in patients with isolated systolic hypertension, as well as in elderly and high-risk patients. Accordingly, CCBs are indicated for hypertension in elderly patients, isolated systolic hypertension, angina pectoris, and coronary vasospasm. Non-DHP-CCBs are contraindicated in high-grade heart block, bradycardia (<60 beats per minute [bpm]), and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). DHP-CCBs should be used with caution in patients with tachyarrhythmia, HFrEF, and severe leg edema, and non-DHP-CCBs should be used carefully in those with constipation. Each CCB has distinct pharmacokinetics and side effects, underscoring the need for meticulous consideration in clinical practice.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Design of Experimental Approach for Development of Rapid High Performance Liquid Chromatographic Process for Simultaneous Estimation of Metoprolol, Telmisartan, and Amlodipine from Formulation: Greenness and Whiteness Evaluation
Mahesh Attimarad, Mohammed Jassim Alali, Hussain Ali Alali, Dana Hisham Alabdulmuhsin, Aljohara Khalid Alnajdi, Katharigatta Narayanaswamy Venugopala, Anroop B. Nair
Molecules.2024; 29(5): 1087. CrossRef

Decision-making for recurrent atrial fibrillation after catheter ablation: Jum Suk Ko, Sung Soo Kim, Hyung Ki Jeong, Nam Ho Kim; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2023;5(4):102-112. Published online October 27, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2023.5.e15

3,066 View
110 Download

Abstract PDF: Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF), especially pulmonary vein (PV) isolation, is widely used for rhythm control. However, AF recurrence remains a challenge, affecting 20% to 50% of cases. This review focuses on AF recurrence after catheter ablation. AF recurrence can be categorized into early recurrence (ER) within 3 months after index procedure, late recurrence (LR) within 1 year, and very LR (VLR) occurring beyond 1 year. ER has emerged as a significant predictor of LR, contrary to the traditional understanding. LR is primarily caused by PV reconnection, while VLR more involves non-PV triggers or substrates. Managing AF recurrence includes antiarrhythmic drugs, steroids, colchicine, and repeat ablation. Antiarrhythmic drugs reduce ER but have a limited impact on LR. Steroids have been shown to reduce ER, but not long-term recurrence. Colchicine, an anti-inflammatory agent, shows promise in reducing both ER and LR, although further research is necessary. Whether to perform early repeat ablation after ER remains uncertain, as not all patients require immediate intervention. In conclusion, AF recurrence after ablation remains a complex issue. Understanding the underlying mechanisms is essential for personalized management. Tailored approaches, considering individual characteristics, are crucial for long-term success. Future research should focus on improving therapeutic strategies for AF recurrence.

Optimal target blood pressure in older patients with hypertension: Kwang-il Kim; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2023;5(2):41-48. Published online April 24, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2023.5.e4

2,507 View
163 Download

Abstract PDF: Hypertension is a common condition among older adults, and blood pressure (BP) control is effective for preventing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality even among the oldest-old adults. However, the optimal target BP for older patients with hypertension has been a subject of debate, with previous clinical trials providing conflicting evidence. Determining the optimal target BP for older adults is a complex issue that requires considering comorbidities, frailty, quality of life, and goals of care. As such, BP targets should be individualized based on each patient's unique health status and risk factors, and treatment should be closely monitored to ensure that it is effective and well-tolerated. The benefits and risks of intensive BP control should be carefully weighed in the context of the patient's overall health status and treatment goals. Ultimately, the decision to pursue intensive BP control should be made through shared decision-making between patients and their healthcare providers.

Lipid variability in patients with diabetes mellitus: Jeongmin Lee, Seung-Hwan Lee; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2023;5(4):126-133. Published online October 25, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2023.5.e18

801 View
57 Download

Abstract PDF: Diabetic dyslipidemia is characterized by hypertriglyceridemia, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and the predominance of small dense LDL particles caused by insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) or insulin deficiency in patients with type 1 DM. Dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in individuals with DM, and lowering lipid levels can reduce the associated morbidity and mortality. The current guidelines for dyslipidemia management recommend an LDL-C goal lower than 55 to 100 mg/dL, depending on the underlying risk factors. However, greater visit-to-visit variability in cholesterol levels might be an independent predictor of major adverse cardiovascular events, high incidence of atrial fibrillation, poor renal outcomes, and cognitive dysfunction in patients with DM. This review focuses on the clinical implications of lipid variability in patients with DM.

Adverse effects of statin therapy and their treatment: Dae Young Cheon, Sang-Ho Jo; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2022;4(1):1-6. Published online January 20, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2022.4.e4

10,634 View
446 Download
2 Citations

Abstract PDF

Statins are one of the most widely used drugs worldwide as first-line drugs for the treatment of hyperlipidemia and the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Most of the side effects of statins are known to be mild, and mainly hepatotoxicity and various muscle symptoms are known. Recently, there have been studies on concerns about an increase in the incidence of diabetes after using statins, but it was found that the benefits sufficiently outweigh the risk of side effects. Therefore, the use of statins in the appropriate group should be actively performed, and it seems that the side effects can be prevented through close physical observation and appropriate examination.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

The Link between Magnesium Supplements and Statin Medication in Dyslipidemic Patients
Roxana Nartea, Brindusa Ilinca Mitoiu, Ioana Ghiorghiu
Current Issues in Molecular Biology.2023; 45(4): 3146. CrossRef
The effects of L-carnitine in reducing hepatotoxicity of statins in rats
Doaa Ibrahim, Shahad Bader, Omar Bader
Medicinski casopis.2023; 57(3): 59. CrossRef

Adverse reactions to antiarrhythmic drugs: Ungjeong Do; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2023;5(1):1-14. Published online January 16, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2023.5.e1

3,521 View
201 Download

Abstract PDF: There are various types of adverse reactions to antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs). Proarrhythmia, which refers to an exacerbation of the preexisting arrhythmia or occurrence of a new arrhythmia, may occur under the therapeutic concentration of an AAD. Bradyarrhythmia is the most common type of proarrhythmia due to AADs, and prior myocardial infarction and old age are known risk factors. Atrial flutter with 1:1 atrioventricular conduction usually occurs during rhythm control of atrial fibrillation with class IC AADs. QT prolongation due to AADs, mainly class III AADs, elevates the risk of torsade de pointes by triggered activity due to early afterdepolarization. The addition of clinical factors that promote QT prolongation, such as hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, female sex, and bradycardia, increases the risk of developing torsade de pointes. Proarrhythmic monomorphic ventricular tachycardia usually occurs as a result of slow conduction and disparity of refractoriness due to class IC AADs. In patients with preexisting left ventricular systolic dysfunction or structural heart disease, the risk of hypotension or cardiogenic shock caused by negative inotropic effects due to AADs should be considered. To prevent these major adverse reactions to AADs, we need to understand the electrophysiologic properties of AADs in detail. Furthermore, the risk of proarrhythmia could be heightened by interplay with clinical factors, such as electrolyte unbalances, heart rate, and hepatic/renal or myocardial dysfunction. Sufficient awareness about drug-drug interactions, which may affect the metabolism of AADs, will improve patient safety during the management of arrhythmia.

The effects and side effects of liraglutide as a treatment for obesity: Jeonghoon Ha, Jin Yu, Joonyub Lee, Hun-Sung Kim; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2022;4(4):142-148. Published online October 20, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2022.4.e18

1,767 View
64 Download

Abstract PDF: The incidence of obesity is increasing throughout the world, including Korea. Liraglutide, the main purpose of which is glucose control, has recently gained significant attention due to its additional effect on weight loss. Liraglutide injections have been widely used as an important treatment for obese patients in Korea. In addition to weight loss, liraglutide has various other effects, such as prevention of cardiovascular disease. Despite its excellent effect on weight loss, notable side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, have also been associated with liraglutide. Despite these side effects, liraglutide has not been discontinued due to its beneficial effects on weight loss. Nonetheless, there are reports wherein patients did not experience weight loss upon taking the drug. As such, there is a possibility of liraglutide misuse and abuse. Therefore, physicians need to have a broad understanding of liraglutide and understand the advantages and disadvantages of liraglutide prescription.

Recent evidence on target blood pressure in patients with hypertension: Hack-Lyoung Kim; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2024;6(1):17-25. Published online January 22, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2024.6.e3

546 View
22 Download

Abstract PDF: Hypertension is a significant risk factor for a variety of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and peripheral arterial disease. Achieving and maintaining a specific target blood pressure (BP) is crucial for effectively reducing the risk associated with these conditions. This involves customizing treatments to meet the individual needs of patients with hypertension, ensuring that each person receives the most appropriate care for their particular circumstances. Previously, based on the findings from the ACCORD (Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes) study conducted over the past decade, the target BP for patients with hypertension was set at <140/90 mmHg, regardless of the patient's risk profile. However, new insights from reanalyzed data of studies such as the SPRINT (Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial), the STEP (Strategy of Blood Pressure Intervention in the Elderly Hypertensive Patients) study, and ACCORD subgroup reanalysis have led to a change in this approach. These studies support a more aggressive target BP of <130/80 mmHg, especially for high-risk patients. The purpose of this article is to offer a thorough review of these updated recommendations and to explain the reasoning behind the revised target BP guidelines for individuals with hypertension.

Diabetes mellitus and cancer: Jae Won Hong; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2023;5(3):69-73. Published online July 27, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2023.5.e9

1,908 View
61 Download

Abstract PDF: Diabetes mellitus and cancer are the most common life-threatening illnesses worldwide. Previous epidemiological studies have suggested a strong association between diabetes mellitus and an increased risk of cancer. Potential biological mechanisms underlying this relationship include obesity, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress. The most common diabetes-related cancers are pancreatic, hepatocellular, breast, endometrial, and colorectal cancer. Special attention should be paid to patients with diabetes through careful cancer screening and preventive anticancer strategies.

The crosstalk between insulin resistance and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease/metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease: a culprit or a consequence?: Dae-Jeong Koo, Won-Young Lee; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2022;4(4):132-141. Published online October 20, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2022.4.e17

1,994 View
54 Download

Abstract PDF: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which has recently undergone a change in its definition and acronym to “metabolic dysfunction associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD),” is clinically significant as an increasingly prevalent independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Insulin resistance is considered to be a key mechanism in the development and progression of NAFLD/MAFLD, and fatty liver disease itself may exacerbate insulin resistance. In this review, we describe the mechanisms underlying the interaction between insulin resistance and fatty liver, and we summarize the therapeutic attempts based on those mechanisms.

Original Article

Modifiable risk factors for coronary artery disease in the Indonesian population: a nested case-control study: Anggoro Budi Hartopo, Maria Patricia Inggriani, Brilliant Winona Jhundy, Jajah Fachiroh, Putri Tiara Rosha, Ratri Kusuma Wardani, Fatwa Sari Tetra Dewi; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2023;5(1):24-34. Published online January 31, 2023; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2023.5.e3

1,931 View
85 Download

Abstract PDF: Background
There is a lack of data on modifiable coronary artery disease (CAD) risk factors in the Indonesian population, hindering the implementation of assessments and prevention programs in this population. This study investigated modifiable risk factors for CAD among Indonesians by comparing them between CAD-proven patients and healthy subjects from a similar population.
Methods
In this nested, matched case-control study, the cases were patients from a referral hospital in Yogyakarta, Indonesia and the controls were respondents in a population surveillance system in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The cases were 421 patients who had undergone coronary angiography, showing significant CAD. The sex- and age-matched controls were 842 respondents from the Universitas Gadjah Mada Health and Health and Demographic Surveillance System Sleman who indicated no CAD presence on a questionnaire. The modifiable CAD risk factors compared between cases and controls were diabetes mellitus, hypertension, central obesity, smoking history, physical inactivity, and less fruit and vegetable intake. A multivariate regression model was applied to determine independent modifiable risk factors for CAD, expressed as adjusted odds ratios (AORs).
Results
A multivariate analysis model of 1,263 subjects including all modifiable risk factors indicated that diabetes mellitus (AOR, 3.32; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.09–5.28), hypertension (AOR, 2.52; 95% CI, 1.76–3.60), former smoking (AOR, 4.18; 95% CI, 2.73–6.39), physical inactivity (AOR, 15.91; 95% CI, 10.13–24.99), and less fruit and vegetable intake (AOR, 5.42; 95% CI, 2.84–10.34) independently and significantly emerged as risk factors for CAD.
Conclusions
Hypertension, diabetes mellitus, former smoking, physical inactivity, and less fruit and vegetable intake were independent and significant modifiable risk factors for CAD in the Indonesian population.

Review Articles

Diverse perspectives on remote collaborative care for chronic disease management: Seo Yeon Baik, Hakyoung Park, Jiwon Shinn, Hun-Sung Kim; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2024;6(1):26-32. Published online January 25, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2024.6.e5

410 View
15 Download

Abstract PDF: Remote collaborative care is a program that improves medical services by linking local and remote physicians with residents in areas where access to medical facilities is limited, utilizing information and communication technology. As a result, patients can obtain medical advice and counseling at local hospitals without needing to travel to distant facilities. This care model involves communication between doctors, facilitating the accurate transfer of medical information and reducing the risk of misunderstandings. For instance, managing conditions such as blood pressure or blood glucose is more straightforward because a local hospital can assess the patient's status while a remote hospital simultaneously provides high-quality, specialized medical services. With the rise in poorly controlled hypertension or diabetes, the need for remote collaborative care has also increased. This care model enables local hospitals to maintain continuous patient care with the support of remote facilities. This is particularly true following acute cardiovascular treatment, where local hospitals, assisted by remote institutions, can safely offer high-quality services such as rehabilitation and follow-up care. Although remote hospitals have many advantages with the increasing number of patients, many difficulties remain in commercializing unsystematized remote collaborative care. Specifically, low reimbursements for medical services must be addressed, proper equipment is needed, more time and effort must be invested, and the liability issue must also be dealt with. Nevertheless, remote collaborative care using information and communication technology will be necessary in the future. Medical staff need to objectively examine the advantages and disadvantages of remote collaborative care from various perspectives and find ways to revitalize it.

Atrial fibrillation: when and how to treat?: Young Keun On; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2024;6(1):1-7. Published online January 26, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2024.6.e4

350 View
14 Download

Abstract PDF: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmia, characterized by an irregular and rapid beating of the atria, which results in a loss of effective atrial contraction. The estimated prevalence of AF in the general population is approximately 0.4%. Research on the incidence of AF indicates a significant increase with age. AF presents a significantly higher risk of stroke compared to normal sinus rhythm, with the risk increasing approximately fivefold. It is estimated that around 5% of AF patients suffer a stroke annually. Roughly 20% to 25% of thromboembolic strokes can be attributed to AF, and AF is also associated with a twofold increase in overall mortality. The goals of AF treatment are symptom relief, restoration of normal cardiac function, prevention of thromboembolism, and reduction in mortality. Therefore, the treatment principles can be summarized into three categories: thromboembolism prevention, rate control, and rhythm control. In the treatment of AF, the first step should be to identify and eliminate any underlying causes or triggers. Caution should be exercised regarding the potential for drug-induced arrhythmias or extracardiac side effects. Safety considerations should take precedence over efficacy when selecting antiarrhythmic drugs. Nonpharmacological treatment methods are employed when anti-arrhythmic drug therapy alone is insufficient, particularly in relatively young individuals (under 70 years) without preexisting heart disease, who have experienced frequent transitions from atrial premature contractions or AF instigated by atrial premature contractions. Monitoring the patient's progress is vital, with a focus on comprehensive care for patients with AF.

Original Article

Current status of remote collaborative care for hypertension in medically underserved areas: Seo Yeon Baik, Kyoung Min Kim, Hakyoung Park, Jiwon Shinn, Hun-Sung Kim; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2024;6(1):33-39. Published online January 22, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2024.6.e2

494 View
17 Download

Abstract PDF: Background
Remote collaborative care (ReCC) is a legally recognized form of telehealth that facilitates communication between physicians. This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of ReCC services and establish a foundation for the usefulness and effectiveness of ReCC.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study utilized data from the Digital Healthcare Information System (DHIS) managed by the Korea Social Security Information Service. We extracted data on patients who were registered from January 2017 through September 2023 to investigate the effects of various factors.
Results
A total of 10,407 individuals participated in the remote collaborative consultation service provided by the DHIS. Of these participants, those aged ≥80 years represented 39.2% (4,085 patients), while those aged 70 to 79 years comprised 36.9% (3,838 patients). The conditions treated included hypertension, affecting 69.2% (7,203 patients), and diabetes, affecting 21.1% (2,201 patients). Although various measurement items were recorded, most data beyond blood pressure readings were missing, posing a challenge for analysis. Notably, there was a significant reduction in blood pressure that was sustained at follow-up intervals of 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-baseline (all P<0.05).
Conclusions
Owing to the lack of data, follow-up assessments for conditions other than hypertension proved to be challenging. Medical staff should increase their focus on and engagement with the system. Remote consultations have demonstrated efficacy in managing hypertension in medically underserved areas, where access to healthcare services is often limited. This suggests the potential for expanded use of remote chronic care in the future.

Review Article

Blood pressure control in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: Helsi Rismiati, Hae-Young Lee; Cardiovasc Prev Pharmacother. 2022;4(3):99-105. Published online July 29, 2022; DOI: https://doi.org/10.36011/cpp.2022.4.e16

3,405 View
145 Download
1 Citations

Abstract PDF

Hypertension is a major cause of maternal morbidity and occurs as a complication in up to one in ten pregnancies. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy encompass gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, chronic hypertension, and chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia. However, the management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy remains a matter of debate, particularly the blood pressure thresholds and targets for managing hypertension in pregnancy. Previously, there was no clear evidence of the effectiveness of aggressive blood pressure control in pregnancy due to the risk of fetal growth restriction. Recent clinical trials have shown that aggressive control of blood pressure in pregnant women is safe for both the mother and fetus. The purpose of this paper is to present a clinically oriented guide to the drugs of choice in patients with hypertension during pregnancy, present contrasts among different guidelines and recent clinical trials, and discuss the blood pressure thresholds and targets for hypertension during pregnancy based on recent studies.

Citations

Citations to this article as recorded by

Combined Effects of Methyldopa and Baicalein or Scutellaria baicalensis Roots Extract on Blood Pressure, Heart Rate, and Expression of Inflammatory and Vascular Disease-Related Factors in Spontaneously Hypertensive Pregnant Rats
Michał Szulc, Radosław Kujawski, Przemysław Ł. Mikołajczak, Anna Bogacz, Marlena Wolek, Aleksandra Górska, Kamila Czora-Poczwardowska, Marcin Ożarowski, Agnieszka Gryszczyńska, Justyna Baraniak, Małgorzata Kania-Dobrowolska, Artur Adamczak, Ewa Iwańczyk-S
Pharmaceuticals.2022; 15(11): 1342. CrossRef

First
Prev
Page of 3
Next
Last

Most download