Cardiovascular Pharmacology: Open Access

Abstract

Pharmacotherapy in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory

Chiara Bernelli

Cardiovascular pharmacology and therapeutics have been subject to an enormous amount of change and evolution during the last years in parallel with the revolutions in the field of catheterization laboratory. Advances in adjunct pharmacotherapy have been the foundation for progress in the catheterization laboratory. Indeed, pharmacotherapy remains essential in preventing potential complications during both diagnostic and interventional procedures and in optimizing the mechanical reperfusion therapy. Furthermore, the interventionalist must be prepared and able to medically manage an unparalleled range of conditions, ranging from diabetes and chronic kidney disease to complications such as hypotension, arrhythmias, and anaphylaxis which may present in the catheterization laboratory. The present review focuses on the appropriate utilization of adjunct pharmacotherapy in the catheterization laboratory with respect to their actions, prescribed usage, dosages, adverse reactions, cautions and common routes of administration.