Medications - Cardiology

What is the function of anticoagulants?

They stop clots from forming.

Name a fast-acting anticoagulant that is given IV or subcutaneously in hospitals.

Heparin.

What is warfarin used for?

Long-term treatment for atrial fibrillation or prosthetic heart valves.

What type of anticoagulant is dabigatran?

Direct thrombin blocker used for stroke prevention.

Which anticoagulant is a factor Xa blocker?

Rivaroxaban, used to prevent DVT or pulmonary embolism.

What do antiplatelets do?

They stop platelets from sticking together.

Which antiplatelet is commonly used to prevent heart attacks and strokes?

Aspirin.

What is the use of clopidogrel?

It's used with aspirin after stents or heart attacks.

What is the purpose of antihypertensives?

They lower blood pressure.

Which antihypertensive is used for fast IV blood pressure control in theatre?

Sodium Nitroprusside (SNP).

Name a class of medication that raises blood pressure.

Vasopressors.

What is adrenaline used for?

It is used for anaphylaxis or cardiac arrest.

What does amiodarone treat?

It treats atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, and ventricular fibrillation.

What are nitrates used for?

They open up blood vessels.

What does atorvastatin do?

It lowers cholesterol and prevents heart disease.

What is the action of anticholinergics?

They dry and speed things up.

What is furosemide used for in the context of special mentions?

It is a diuretic that removes extra fluid.