Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, calcium blockers, estrogen and antioxidants in secondary prevention of coronary disease.

Cardiovascular risk factors promote the development of cardiovascular disease by producing endothelial dysfunction. Interventions that improve endothelial function would therefore be expected to help prevent coronary disease. Studies have demonstrated that a variety of interventions, both pharmacological and nonpharmacological, can improve endothelial dysfunction. Several pharmacological interventions are briefly reviewed, with an emphasis on current issues and controversies.