Top stories in cardiology: FDA approves implantable drug delivery system, updated BP guideline essential for special populations

Among the top stories in cardiology is the FDA approval of an implantable drug delivery system and cardiac catheter technology for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. Drospirenone, an oral contraceptive, was associated with QTc prolongation when combined with sotalol. Other top stories include a recommendation that genetic testing be the standard of care for patients with definite or probable familial hypercholesterolemia, LDL lowering beyond current recommended targets reduced CV events without serious adverse effects, and updated BP control guidelines are essential for black patients, those with diabetes and older patients.

FDA approves implantable drug delivery system for PAH

Medtronic announced that an implantable drug delivery system and cardiac catheter technology for the treatment of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension has received approval from the FDA. Read More.

Drospirenone may contribute to QTc prolongation

When combined with sotalol, the oral contraceptive drospirenone was associated with QTc prolongation, a marker for torsades de pointes, according to new findings. Read More.

Expert panel endorses genetic screening for FH

A Journal of the American College of Cardiology Scientific Panel convened by the Familial Hypercholesterolemia Foundation recommended that genetic testing be the standard of care for patients with definite or probable FH. Read More.

Lowering LDL beyond current targets may further reduce CVD

Lowering LDL as much as possible via statin and nonstatin therapies resulted in reduced risk for CV events without serious adverse effects, according to an analysis published in JAMA Cardiology. Read More.

Implementation of updated BP guidelines essential for special populations

Proper BP control for black patients, those with diabetes and older patients is critical in reducing the risk for CV events, according to a presentation at the American Society for Preventive Cardiology Congress on CVD. Read More.