Drugs in Cardiology

Abstract

Advances In Drug Research, vol 9, edited Alma B. Simmonds, 142 pp, with illus, $12.25, New York, Academic Press, 1975. Emphasizing applied therapeutics more than fundamental pharmacology and pharmacodynamics, these volumes edited Donoso consider common drugs affecting the rhythm, contractility, and perfusion of the heart, altering the blood lipoproteins, and regulating the blood pressure. Although many commonly used drugs are listed, including the frequently overlooked but dangerous effects of the mood-altering agents, one looks in vain for clonidine, xanthines, ephedrine, veratrum, and several other drugs in current use. Anticoagulant drugs will find consideration later among theCurrent Cardiovascular Topicsalong with consideration of platelets and thrombosis and a variety of other topics that will be determined the editor by the current informational needs in the field. Details of absorption, distribution, biotransformation, excretion, fate, and molecular basis of action are scant, but clinical effectiveness, along with both the