Polypills : Combating Cardiovascular Diseases
The WHO has recognized the effectiveness of polypills in combating cardiovascular diseases by including them in the Model Lists of Essential Medicines.
- A polypill is a single pill that contains a combination of multiple medications, typically used for the prevention or treatment of various health conditions. It simplifies medication regimens by packaging several drugs together in a single dosage form.
- “Polycap,” which is a polypill containing multiple medications, including simvastatin (for cholesterol control), ramipril (for blood pressure control), atenolol (for heart health), hydrochlorothiazide (for blood pressure control), and acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin for clot prevention).
- Polypills are designed to simplify treatment regimens, enhance medication adherence, and provide an effective approach to managing complex health conditions by combining multiple medications into a single dosage form.
- The WHO Model Lists of Essential Medicines are updated every two years by the Expert Committee on Selection and Use of Essential Medicines.
