Medical Management of Peripheral Arterial Disease: Deciphering the Intricacies of Therapeutic Options

ABSTRACT Due to the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis, the management for coronary artery disease (CAD) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) were considered homogenous with therapies focused on the use of lipid-lowering medications, antiplatelet therapy, glucose control, and blood pressure management. However, more recently, studies have supported the use of tailored therapeutics and medical targets for patients with PAD, which sometimes differ from CAD. Moreover, we are now witnessing large randomized PAD-specific trials which have altered therapeutic regimens and targets. With these updates, dissemination of knowledge is lacking as witnessed by discordant guideline recommendations. This comprehensive review provides an overview of contemporary therapeutic options for secondary prevention of patients with PAD.