ABSTRACT
One of the potential challenges facing health-care professionals is the problem of drug-induced disease, especially drug-induced nutrient depletion (DIND). DIND in patients, including the cardiovascular (CV) patient, is a very important issue that the twenty-first-century clinician must become well versed in and consider implementing into practice. In the medical management of individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD) or comorbid conditions, several classes of prescription drugs may be employed with the potential for depletions of nutrients, which could induce metabolic changes, and further the progression of any component of the underlying CV problems or comorbidities. The chapter presents a review of the principal nutrients depleted, their relationship to CVD and comorbid conditions, and the associated risks of nutrient depletion. Even marginal magnesium deficiency can decrease myocardial magnesium, which can directly affect contractility and excitability of the heart. The mechanism of action of this result is primarily by the reduced regulation of calcium ion channel.
