Drugs in PAD

Question 1

Intermittent claudication definition

Answer 1

-Pain when walking in buttocks, thighs, or calves
-relief at rest

Question 2

General treatment for acute limb ischemia

Answer 2

-revascularization via thrombolytics, endovascular, or surgical methods

Question 3

What is used as emergency treatment in any scenerio?

Answer 3

-systemic Heparin

Question 4

How do we diagnose PAD?

Answer 4

ABI (ankle brachial index) -> ratio of blood pressure in ankles:arms < 0.9

Question 5

Recommended treatment for patients with symptomatic PAD

Answer 5

Aspirin (75-325 mg per day) for intermittent claudication

Question 6

When is Cilostazol recommended in PAD?

Answer 6

To manage symptoms and improve walking distance

Question 7

What are the adverse effects of cilostazol? Why does this happen?

Answer 7

Headache
GI upset/diarrhea
= lots of vasodilation

Question 8

How long does Cilostazol take to work

Answer 8

2-4 weeks or up to 12 weeks.

Question 9

Cilostazol BBW

Answer 9

Contraindicated in patients with heart failure

Question 10

For long-term treatment of PAD what drugs should be given to ALL patients?

Answer 10

1. Statin
2. Antiplatelet
3. BP control (ACEI/ARB preferred)