Edexcel A Level (IAL) Biology -1.20 Treatments for CVD: Benefits & Risks- Study Notes- New Syllabus
Edexcel A Level (IAL) Biology -1.20 Treatments for CVD: Benefits & Risks- Study Notes- New syllabus
Edexcel A Level (IAL) Biology -1.20 Treatments for CVD: Benefits & Risks- Study Notes -Edexcel A level Biology – per latest Syllabus.
Key Concepts:
- 1.20 know the benefits and risks of treatments for cardiovascular disease (CVD) (antihypertensives, statins, anticoagulants and platelet inhibitors)
Treatments for Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) – Benefits & Risks
🌱 Key Concept
CVD can be managed using drugs that target blood pressure, cholesterol, and clot formation. Each treatment has benefits and possible risks.
1. Antihypertensives
- Purpose: Lower high blood pressure → reduces strain on heart & arteries
- Examples: ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers
- Benefits:
- Prevents heart attacks and strokes
- Reduces risk of heart failure
- Risks / Side effects:
- Dizziness, fatigue
- Cough (ACE inhibitors)
- Heart rate changes
2. Statins
- Purpose: Lower blood cholesterol (especially LDL) → slows plaque formation
- Benefits:
- Reduces risk of heart attacks and strokes
- Helps prevent progression of atherosclerosis
- Risks / Side effects:
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Liver damage (rare)
- Interactions with other medications
3. Anticoagulants
- Purpose: Reduce blood clot formation → prevent blockages in arteries
- Examples: Warfarin, heparin
- Benefits:
- Reduces risk of heart attack and stroke
- Useful after surgeries or in atrial fibrillation
- Risks / Side effects:
- Increased risk of bleeding
- Bruising easily
- Requires regular blood monitoring
4. Platelet Inhibitors
- Purpose: Stop platelets from clumping → reduce clot formation
- Examples: Aspirin, clopidogrel
- Benefits:
- Reduces risk of heart attack and stroke
- Can be used long-term for high-risk patients
- Risks / Side effects:
- Stomach irritation / ulcers
- Increased bleeding risk
🧠 Quick Recap
| Drug Type | Main Benefit | Main Risk / Side Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Antihypertensives | Lower blood pressure | Dizziness, fatigue, cough |
| Statins | Lower cholesterol | Muscle pain, liver damage |
| Anticoagulants | Reduce blood clotting | Bleeding, requires monitoring |
| Platelet inhibitors | Reduce platelet aggregation | Bleeding, stomach irritation |
✅ Key Tip: All treatments reduce CVD risk, but patients must balance benefits with potential side effects under medical supervision.