Module 6: Body Systems: Cardiovascular

Introduction

This module reviews the anatomy and physiology of the cardiovascular system and explores the drugs used to prevent, manage, and treat diseases of the heart and blood vessels. You will explore conditions such as blood pressure, arrhythmias, heart failure, coronary artery disease, and stroke, and the mechanism of action, therapeutic uses, and side effects of the major drug classes. We will also consider emerging therapies aimed at improving cardiovascular health and patient outcomes.  

Image: Atorvastatin calcium tablets, sold under the brand name Lipitor, are used for treating dyslipidemia and for preventing cardiovascular disease. Source: "Atorvastatin40mg" by Panthro is licensed CC BY-SA 3.0

Learning Objectives [Forthcoming] 

Upon completion of this module, you will be able to:

1. Explain how the heart and blood vessels work together to control blood pressure, cardiac output, and blood flow to the tissues, and how common cardiovascular drugs change these functions.​
2. Match the major drug classes (for example, diuretics, ACE inhibitors/ARBs, beta‑blockers, calcium channel blockers, antiplatelets, anticoagulants, statins) with their basic mechanism, main uses, and a few important side effects.​
3. Describe the difference between HFrEF and HFpEF and outline the key medicines that improve symptoms and survival in HFrEF.​
4. Distinguish between drugs that control heart rhythm or heart rate and those that prevent blood clots, and explain why both types are important in conditions such as atrial fibrillation, heart attack, and stroke.​
5. Explain how lowering LDL cholesterol with statins and other drugs reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke over time.​
6. Apply these ideas to a patient case (like Mr. Johnson) to identify appropriate drug choices and important safety or monitoring issues.

To achieve these objectives:

1. Read the Module 6 Introduction 
   
2. Read Chapter 8. Cardiovascular Pharmacology in Introduction to Pharmacology - aligns with computer proficiency 
3. Complete the Module 6 Discussion Forum - aligns with computer proficiency, internet navigation, digital communication, and collaboration
4. Complete the Module 6 Quiz - aligns with computer proficiency 

Module Pressbooks Resources and Activities