Top in cardiology: Icosapent ethyl and COVID-19, impact of BP on cognitive decline

Early data presented at the virtual National Lipid Association Scientific Sessions suggest that icosapent ethyl may reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in patients with COVID-19. It was the top story in cardiology last week.

Another top story was about a study that found hypertension and prehypertension were associated with declines in various markers of cognitive function.

Read these and more top stories in cardiology below:

Icosapent ethyl appears to reduce inflammation, improve symptoms in COVID-19

In a first-in-human study, icosapent ethyl (Vascepa, Amarin) reduced levels of inflammatory biomarkers and improved symptoms in patients with COVID-19, researchers reported. Read more.

BP control may impact decline in cognitive function

BP control may be critical for the preservation of cognitive function, according to a study published in Hypertension. Read more.

FDA panel supports expanded indication for sacubitril/valsartan in some with HFpEF

The FDA’s Cardiovascular and Renal Drugs Advisory Committee voted 12-1 that an expanded indication is warranted for sacubitril/valsartan (Entresto, Novartis), which could allow it as a treatment for certain patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Read more.

Relationship of HIV severity, endothelial function may predict additional CVD risk

The relationship between HIV and arterial endothelial function may imply CVD risk among infected patients, particularly if they also have kidney disease, according to a study published in Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology. Read more.

HF prevention strategies needed in patients with diabetes

Preventive heart failure strategies must be broadened to target patients with diabetes, according to study findings published in JAMA Cardiology. Read more.