[Update on the pharmacological treatment of unstable angina.]

Abstract

The combined death/infarct rate in the weeks following unstable angina ranges from 10 to 40 %. Aspirin and GP Ilb/IIIa antagonists reduce the mortality and morbidity, which has not been demonstrated with heparin. The short term clinical results of treatment with hirudin are better than those with heparin. A rebound biological effect after heparin or hirudin therapy may have adverse clinical consequences. Nitrate derivatives have a role to play and adjuvant therapy includes the betablockers and some calcium antagonists in special indications