Introduction to the cardiovascular system and medications

Also known as the circulatory system, it transports oxygen, nutrients, and other components in the blood to the tissues. The cardiovascular system is composed of the heart and various types of blood vessels, such as arteries, veins, and capillaries. Diseases of the cardiovascular system are one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Hypertension is a disorder of the cardiovascular system denoted by an increased blood pressure, which can eventually lead to complications in vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and brain. It is treated with lifestyle modifications and antihypertensive medications. Coronary artery disease is characterised by a mismatch between the demand and supply of oxygen and nutrients to the heart muscle as a result of plaque buildup in the coronary arteries, leading to heart failure and other life-threatening complications. It is treated with a combination of medications such as antianginals, anticoagulants, and reducing risk factors such as high cholesterol with antihyperlipidemics. Antiarrhythmics are drugs that are used to treat irregular cardiac rhythms.

Table showing common drug classes and examples of the cardiovascular system