New Advances in the Application of Cardiovascular Drugs

Author: Zhang Wenbo, Editor-in-Chief
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2002-10-01
Features: In the past two decades, the development and research of cardiovascular drugs have made significant progress, primarily two aspects: ① The continuous development and application of new drugs, such as novel antiplatelet drugs, low-molecular-weight heparin, and angiotensin L receptor blockers; ② The repurposing of existing drugs, such as aspirin for acute myocardial infarction and β-receptor blockers for congestive heart failure. Due to these advancements, the treatment of cardiovascular diseases has reached a new level. Currently, we have a wide range of highly effective cardiovascular drugs, and the key issue is whether we can use them reasonably to maximize their efficacy. Cardiovascular drugs are a double-edged sword—they can harm both the "enemy" and the "self." If used reasonably, these drugs can save lives, alleviate suffering, and improve quality of life for many patients. However, if used improperly, they may cause harm and pain. Based on my observations, the tendency to overuse and misuse drugs is quite common in clinical practice, especially in grassroots hospitals. The main purpose of writing this book is to help clinicians move away from the pitfalls of overusing and misusing cardiovascular drugs and learn to use them reasonably. What constitutes rational drug use? What are the standards for rational drug use? According to my understanding, it should at least include the following four aspects: ① Selecting appropriate drugs based on the patient's condition and overall health, using appropriate dosages and durations of treatment; ② When using drugs long-term, the chosen medications must not only alleviate symptoms but also improve prognosis, at least without adversely affecting it; ③ When multiple drugs are used together, attention must be paid to drug interactions, and efforts should be made to avoid increasing adverse side effects and reducing efficacy; ④ Considering the cost-effectiveness ratio of drugs, prefer medications with similar efficacy but lower prices. The above issues are elaborated and discussed in detail in each chapter of this book. The current medical model has shifted from empirical medicine to evidence-based medicine. Without understanding the results of large-scale randomized clinical trials on cardiovascular drugs, we cannot use them reasonably and effectively. Therefore, this book dedicates a significant portion to introducing large-scale international clinical trials on cardiovascular drugs over the past two decades as a basis and reference for medication. Clinical drug use is both a science and an art. Some techniques in clinical drug use are acquired through continuous exploration in clinical practice. With over 40 years of experience in clinical drug use, I have some insights, as well as both successes and lessons. These are briefly introduced in relevant chapters for the reference of readers. Due to the urgency of time and the limited expertise of the authors, this book is bound to have many shortcomings and imperfections. We sincerely welcome criticism and corrections from readers!
Editor: Zibin, Binzhou Medical University, August 2002
Table of Contents