Common Heart Medications: What to Know

It's important to understand why you have been prescribed certain medications and how those medications work.

If you have a heart condition, there is a good chance you take more than one medicine for it. Knowing why each one was prescribed and how it works helps you take them safely and confidently.

The main types

Heart medicines fall into a few common groups. Your prescriber chooses based on your condition and health history. Here is a plain overview:

• Blood pressure medicines help relax blood vessels or remove extra fluid.
• Beta blockers slow the heart rate and ease the heart's workload.
• Cholesterol medicines, often statins, help lower LDL cholesterol.
• Blood thinners help prevent clots that can cause a stroke or heart attack.
• Water pills help the body get rid of extra salt and fluid.

Many people take a combination. Each one has a job, and together they protect your heart.

Taking them safely

Take heart medicines exactly as prescribed, at about the same time each day. Do not stop suddenly, even if you feel fine. Some, like beta blockers, can cause problems when stopped all at once.

Watch for interactions. Some over the counter cold medicines, pain relievers and herbal supplements can raise blood pressure or affect blood thinners. Certain foods and drinks can matter too. Always check with your pharmacist before adding anything new.

Feeling good often means your medicine is working. That is a reason to keep taking it, not to stop.

Side effects to mention

Dizziness when standing, tiredness, a dry cough, swelling, or unusual bruising are worth bringing up. Many side effects can be managed with a change your prescriber makes. Seek emergency care for chest pain, trouble breathing, signs of a stroke, or serious bleeding.

Staying organized

Keeping track of several medicines is hard. Our Med Packs sort your doses by day and time, and synced refills mean everything is ready on one date. We also offer free delivery anywhere in California, so you never run out.

A medication review with a CarePoint pharmacist can help you understand your full list and catch possible problems early.

Many people find it helpful to check their blood pressure at home and keep a log. Bring your readings and your home monitor to the pharmacy and we can help make sure it is working well and that you are using it correctly. These numbers give your doctor a clearer picture than a single reading at the office and can help guide changes to your plan.

Have questions about anything in this article? Call us at 661.480.2373 and talk with a CarePoint pharmacist. We are happy to help, and there is never a charge for a conversation.

This article is general education, not medical advice.