Acute Coronary Syndrome
Acute coronary syndrome is an umbrella term for conditions where blood supply to the heart muscle is suddenly blocked or severely reduced. It includes unstable angina and both types of heart attack (NSTEMI and STEMI). It is a medical emergency requiring immediate care.
Medicine used to treat Acute Coronary Syndrome
Warning signs to act on immediately
Classic symptoms include chest pain or pressure, pain radiating to the left arm, jaw, or back, shortness of breath, sweating, and nausea. Some people, particularly those with diabetes, experience atypical or mild symptoms. In parts of South and Southeast Asia, where cardiovascular disease rates are rising sharply and younger populations are increasingly affected, recognising these signs early is critical. If any of these occur, call emergency services without delay.
How acute coronary syndrome is managed
Immediate treatment focuses on restoring blood flow, preventing clotting, and protecting heart muscle. Antiplatelet medicines are central to this; ticagrelor is one of the key agents used after a confirmed event to reduce the risk of a further blockage. Long-term management continues with medicines from the heart and blood pressure category, including statins, beta-blockers, and ACE inhibitors, alongside lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation, diet, and structured exercise.