Secondary prevention of acute coronary syndromes: a summary of the new 2025 Australian guideline.

Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) remain a significant cause of disability and death in Australia. Following an initial acute coronary event, there is a significant risk of recurrence, particularly in the first 90 days. In April 2025, the National Heart Foundation of Australia and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand launched a new Australian clinical guideline for diagnosing and managing ACS. The guideline includes recommendations for the secondary prevention of ACS. Pharmacotherapies for secondary prevention of ACS include antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs, lipid-modifying therapy, beta blockers and renin-angiotensin antagonist therapies, plus - in select groups - colchicine and other therapies. Vaccination against influenza and other respiratory pathogens is recommended. Nonpharmacological interventions include cardiac rehabilitation, healthy behaviour changes and screening for mental health conditions. The importance of providing strategies to support adherence to long-term therapies is also emphasised.