Introduction ACE inhibitors (angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors) e.g. ramipril, perindopril, enalapril, lisinopril, captopril are commonly used medications to treat hypertension and heart failure - they are considered first line agents in both…
Indication and dose Amiodarone is an anti-arrhythmic drug. Used particularly when other drugs have been ineffective or contra-indicated. It is most commonly used in atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter, but…
Introduction Angiography is a technique used to visualise the inside of of blood vessels, whereby radio-opaque die is injected into the patient, and imaging studies are subsequently performed. These can…
Angioplasty (percutaneous coronary intervention - PCI) Angioplasty - also known as PCI - Percutaneous Coronary Intervention, or PTCA - Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty Angioplasty is able to open partially closed vessels…
Introduction Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) are usually used in hypertension, HF and post-MI, usually when an ACE-inhibitor has been ineffective or not tolerated. They are also used ot treat…
Introduction Aortic Stenosis is the narrowing of the three cusps that form the aortic valve. It is distinct from aortic sclerosis which is generally a milder precursor to aortic stenosis. Aortic Stenosis…
An Atrial septal defect is a congenital heart defect that causes a shunting of blood from the left to the right atria. L-to-R shunt – ACYANOTIC There are two types…
Introduction Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common tachycardia. It can be caused by many other underlying illnesses, especially in the acutely unwell patient (such as sepsis, pneumonia, hyperthyroidism or other illness)…
Introduction Beta blockers are competitive inhibitors of beta-adrenergic receptors. There are many kinds of vary half lives and lipid solubility. They are used mainly as anti-arrhythmic agents, but are also…
Introduction Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are a group of medications that use several different mechanisms to disrupt the flow of calcium through calcium channels. They were developed in the 1970s…