Cardiology Associates of North Mississippi

Anti-Anginal Therapy

Angina pectoris (or simply angina) is chest pain or pressure that occurs when the heart is not receiving enough blood and oxygen. The underlying cause is usually coronary artery disease (CAD), resulting from an accumulation of plaque (fatty build-up) inside the coronary blood vessels.

Anti-angina therapy is the pharmacological treatment of the symptoms and underlying cause of angina. Nitroglycerin, a coronary vasodilator, is the most common drug prescribed to relax the blood vessels, improve blood flow to the heart and temporarily relieve the pain and pressure. Beta-blockers and calcium antagonist, that reduce blood pressure and the heart’s need for oxygen, can also provide relief.

Coronary artery disease is treated by medications (anti-platelet, blood pressure, and cholesterol medications) and lifestyle modifications (eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight).

For more information on anti-arrhythmic therapy, visit the American Heart Association’s Website.