CV Essentials for Ambulatory Nurses – Foundations-Handout: Cardiovascular Medication Reference Sheet

Handout: Cardiovascular Medication Reference Sheet
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The Cardiovascular Medications Reference List provides information on various antihyperlipidemic medications commonly used in cardiovascular nursing. The list includes medications such as statins (Lipitor, Crestor, Pravachol, Mevacor), which work by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase activity to decrease cholesterol levels. Surveillance for liver disease, renal disease, pregnancy, and hypersensitivity is important when prescribing statins. Monitoring lipid levels and liver function tests at regular intervals is recommended. Statin-associated muscle symptoms (SAMS) may be a potential side effect.<br /><br />Another medication listed is Zetia (ezetimibe), a selective cholesterol absorption inhibitor. Zetia inhibits intestinal uptake of cholesterol, reducing triglycerides and increasing HDL levels. Similar precautions as statins apply, and side effects may include myalgia, myopathy, and an increase in liver enzymes.<br /><br />Fibric acid derivatives, also known as fenofibrates (Fibricor, Tricor, Trilipix, Fenoglide), are included in the reference list as well. They work by lowering triglyceride levels and speeding up the removal of triglycerides from the blood. Precautions for liver disease, kidney disease, gallbladder disease, breastfeeding, and hypersensitivity should be considered. Monitoring lipid levels and liver function tests is recommended.<br /><br />The reference list also includes PCSK-9 inhibitors (monoclonal antibodies) such as Repatha (evolocumab) and Praluent (alirocumab). These medications interfere with PCSK9's binding of the LDL-R, increasing hepatic LDL-R expression and decreasing serum LDL-C levels. Precautions include liver disease, kidney disease, and hypersensitivity. These medications are administered via subcutaneous injections or infusion patch pumps.<br /><br />Leqvio (inclisiran), a small interfering RNA (siRNA), is listed for its ability to block the synthesis of PCSK9, lowering LDL-C levels. Similar precautions to PCSK-9 inhibitors apply, and this medication is administered through subcutaneous injections every three to six months.<br /><br />Nexletol (bempedoic acid), an adenosine triphosphate citrate lyase (ACL) inhibitor, is included in the reference list. It inhibits cholesterol synthesis in the liver, reducing LDL-C levels. Precautions should be taken during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and for those with hypersensitivity. Monitoring lipid levels and uric acid levels, as well as watching for symptoms of tendinopathy or tendon rupture, is recommended.<br /><br />Overall, this reference list provides valuable information on antihyperlipidemic medications used in cardiovascular nursing and emphasizes the importance of considering contraindications, warnings, surveillance, and additional considerations when administering these medications to patients.
Keywords
antihyperlipidemic
statins
cholesterol
PCSK-9 inhibitors
ezetimibe
fenofibrates
Leqvio
Nexletol
cardiovascular nursing
lipid levels