Cardiovasculars encompass a wide group of drugs acting on the cardiovascular system. ACE inhibitors (captopril, enalapril, ramipril, lisinopril) inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme, reducing angiotensin II formation and bradykinin degradation — first-line for hypertension and heart failure. ARBs (losartan, valsartan) selectively block the AT1 receptor of angiotensin II, with fewer side effects (no dry cough). Calcium channel blockers include dihydropyridines (nifedipine, amlodipine — vasodilation), phenylalkylamines (verapamil — bradycardic) and benzothiazepines (diltiazem — intermediate action). Beta-blockers (propranolol, metoprolol, atenolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol) inhibit beta-adrenergic receptors, reducing heart rate and blood pressure. Thiazide diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide, indapamide), loop diuretics (furosemide, bumetanide) and potassium-sparing (spironolactone) promote renal sodium and water excretion. Statins (simvastatin, atorvastatin, rosuvastatin) inhibit HMG-CoA reductase, reducing LDL cholesterol. Nitrates (isosorbide) are venous vasodilators used in angina. (Sources: DailyMed/FDA, EMC-UK/MHRA, NICE Guidelines)
