ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors stop the body from producing a chemical that narrows blood vessels. They are used to treat
high blood pressure and damaged heart muscle. ACE inhibitors may reduce the risks of a future
heart attack and
congestive heart failure. They can also prevent kidney damage in some people with
diabetes. Some examples of ACE inhibitors that may be used as part of
angina treatment include:
Anticoagulants
Anticoagulants decrease the ability of the blood to clot, and therefore help to prevent clots from forming in your arteries and blocking blood flow (these medicines are sometimes called blood thinners, though they do not actually thin the blood). Anticoagulants will not dissolve clots that have already formed, but they may prevent the clots from becoming larger and causing more serious problems.
An example of anticoagulants used in angina treatment is warfarin (Coumadin®, Jantoven®).
Antiplatelets
Antiplatelets are medications that may be used in angina treatment. These medicines stop blood particles called platelets from clumping together to form harmful clots. Aspirin is one type of antiplatelet medicine. Other antiplatelets used in the treatment of angina include:
- Clopidogrel (Plavix®)
- Dipyridamole (Aggrenox®, Persantine®, and others)
- Ticlopidine (Ticlid®).
Beta Blockers
Beta blockers slow the heart rate and allow it to beat with less force. They are used to treat high
blood pressure and some arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) and to prevent a repeat heart attack. They can also delay or prevent the development of angina.
Examples of beta blockers used in angina treatment include:
Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers used for angina treatment include:
Cholesterol Medicines