Acute myocardial infarction. Recommendations for medical management and primary angioplasty.

Deaths from acute myocardial infarction have declined in recent years, thanks to the introduction of thrombolytic drugs and therapy with other types of medication that are beneficial when appropriately used. In this article, the authors review the mechanism of action of these agents and focus on recent clinical trials, indications and contraindications, and proper administration. They also discuss the place of primary angioplasty as an alternative to thrombolytic therapy.