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What is the drug class of choice for treating chest pain from cocaine use?

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The preferred drug class for treating chest pain caused by cocaine use is ß-blockers, with metoprolol and propranolol being common choices that help by dilating blood vessels and controlling heart rate.

Step-by-step explanation:

The drug class of choice for treating chest pain from cocaine use are ß-blockers. These medications are used to manage the cardiovascular complications of cocaine use by blocking the ß-receptors associated with vasoconstriction and cardioacceleration. Among ß-blockers, common versions like metoprolol, which specifically blocks the ß1-receptor, and propranolol, which blocks ß-receptors non-specifically, can improve cardiac function in a compromised system. In the context of cocaine-induced chest pain, these ß-blockers help by allowing blood vessels to dilate and preventing increases in heart rate. In addition to ß-blockers, other treatments may be indicated based on the specific symptoms and complications arising from cocaine use.

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