Angina

Question 1

Angina

Answer 1

Occurs when the oxygen supply to the myocardium is insufficient for its needs

Results in mild heart pain due to transient ischaemia

Question 2

Causes of angina

Answer 2

Usually due to a narrowing or loss of function of coronary arteries

• Age
• Atherosclerosis

Question 3

Beta-blockers

Answer 3

Negative inotropes

B1-adrenoceptor antagonists

Used as prophylaxis; they decrease heart rate to limit oxygen demand

Not effective during an episode of angina

Question 4

Nitrates

Answer 4

Provide symptomatic relief from angina

Cause release of nitric oxide, leading to acute vasodilation

Decreases work done by the heart whilst also increasing blood flow to coronary arteries

Effect is enhanced by phosphodiesterase inhibitors

Question 5

Calcium channel blockers

Answer 5

Prevent influx of calcium to limit smooth muscle contraction

Negative inotropes, reducing the force of myocardial contraction

Used as prophylaxis