Echogenic liposomes (ELIP) formulated with an at least partially pegylated phospholipid bi-layer shell, encapsulated nitric oxide, and encapsulated perfluorocarbon of the formula CxFy in a ratio of about 1:1 by volume, wherein X is greater than or equal to 3, are disclosed, along with methods for treating a patients suffering from cardiovascular disease by administering the ELIP at a site remote from the target diseased section, monitoring presence of the ELIP at the target diseased section, and administering ultrasound upon detection of presence such that bioactive NO is released at the target diseased section.
