How Angina Medications Work

Angina medications work by addressing the underlying causes of chest pain or discomfort, also known as angina pectoris. The primary goal is to reduce myocardial oxygen demand and increase blood flow to the heart muscle.

Gold Standard: Aspirin

• Antiplatelet effect: Aspirin inhibits platelet aggregation, preventing blood clots from forming in coronary arteries.
• Reduced myocardial oxygen demand: By reducing inflammation and improving blood flow, aspirin helps decrease the heart's need for oxygen.

Alternatives to Aspirin

• Beta Blockers: Reduce heart rate and contractility, decreasing myocardial oxygen demand.
• Nitrates: Dilate coronary arteries, increasing blood flow to the heart muscle and reducing oxygen demand.
• Calcium Channel Blockers: Relax smooth muscles in arterial walls, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.

Common Mechanisms of Action

While medications may differ in their specific mechanisms, they often work by:

• Reducing myocardial oxygen demand: Decreasing heart rate, contractility, or blood pressure.
• Increasing blood flow: Dilating coronary arteries or improving vascular tone.