What medication class is primarily used to manage stable angina?

Beta-blockers are primarily used to manage stable angina because they work by decreasing heart rate, reducing myocardial oxygen demand, and improving exercise tolerance. By blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, these medications help to lower the workload of the heart, thus alleviating the frequency and severity of angina attacks. They are especially beneficial in patients with coexisting conditions such as hypertension or a history of myocardial infarction, where their cardio-protective effects are advantageous.

In the context of stable angina, beta-blockers do not only alleviate symptoms but also offer long-term cardiovascular protection. This makes them a cornerstone in the pharmacological management of patients with stable angina.

While other medication classes contribute to the overall management of cardiovascular health, they do not serve the primary role in directly addressing the acute and chronic symptoms of stable angina like beta-blockers do.