In our latest episode, we venture into the heart of cardiology innovation, exploring groundbreaking studies that are reshaping how we approach common cardiovascular conditions.

STUDY #1: Our journey begins with a Lancet paper that looks at a potential alternative for treating supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs). Imagine a world where the distress of SVTs can be alleviated without ablation, a rush to the emergency department or the complexities of intravenous therapy. An intranasal medication might be the key, offering a beacon of hope for patients seeking simpler, yet effective solutions. But how effective is this approach, and what does it mean for the future of SVT management?

Stambler, BS, Camm, AJ, Alings, M, et al. 2023. Self-administered intranasal etripamil using a symptom-prompted, repeat-dose regimen for atrioventricular-nodal-dependent supraventricular tachycardia (RAPID): A multicentre, randomized trial. Lancet. 10396: 118–128. (https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00776-6)

STUDY #2: Transitioning to the realm of antiplatelet therapy, we confront the longstanding question of P2Y12 inhibitors versus aspirin. Will these new findings tilt the balance and shift our approach to secondary coronary prevention? The nuances of this study prompt a deeper reflection on patient-centric care and the economics of new-generation medications.

Gragnano, F, Cao, D, Pirondini, L, et al. 2023. P2Y12 inhibitor or aspirin monotherapy for secondary prevention of coronary events. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2: 89–105. (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2023.04.051)

STUDY #3: Lastly, we explore the potential of bempedoic acid in the landscape of cholesterol management, particularly for patients who are intolerant to statins. With cardiovascular diseases looming as a pervasive threat, the quest for alternative treatments is critical. We see if bempedoic acid could play a potential role in reducing major cardiovascular events, either alongside, or perhaps in lieu of, traditional statin therapy.

Nissen, SE, Menon, V, Nicholls, SJ, et al. 2023. Bempedoic acid for primary prevention of cardiovascular events in statin-intolerant patients. JAMA. 2: 131–140. (https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2023.9696)

Kazi, DS. 2023. Bempedoic acid for high-risk primary prevention of cardiovascular disease: Not a statin substitute but a good plan B. JAMA. 2: 123–125. (https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2023.9854)

Each study we discuss brings its own set of questions, implications, and possibilities for the future of cardiology. From the practicalities of new drug administrations to the cost and effectiveness of established therapies, this episode will get you up to speed!

For show notes, visit us at https://www.medmastery.com/podcasts/cardiology-podcast.