The 'polypill' in the prevention of cardiovascular disease

Abstract

A polypill is a combination of several drugs acting on different risk factors in one formulation. The concept has been proposed as a strategy for reducing cardiovascular events. Several trials have assessed the efficacy of the polypill compared to placebo for primary prevention. These trials showed short-term risk factor reductions, approximately equivalent to the predicted effects of the individual components. At present, the effect of the polypill on the primary prevention of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality is unknown. Large trials have been completed comparing a polypill-based strategy with usual care in populations with established indications for the component drugs. These trials have shown improved adherence with a polypill-based strategy.