Understand the ins and outs of heart medications

A heart disease diagnosis changes things, but it doesn't have to take over your life. Millions of people are managing this condition and doing the things they love — and with the right care plan, you can too.

Along with eating well, staying active, and managing stress, your health care provider may prescribe medication to help lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, or prevent a heart attack. Together, you and your provider will find what works best for you.

Heart medications come in several types, each targeting a different part of the problem. Whatever you're prescribed, take it exactly as directed — even if you're feeling great — and tell your provider about any side effects you experience. This is especially important if your treatment changes, since your dose may need adjusting.

Here's a look at some of the most common heart medications and how they work. 

Statins

These are commonly referred to as cholesterol-lowering medications. Statins block the production of cholesterol. Specifically, they lower the amount of LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol in your blood, which is important because LDL cholesterol is a major cause of heart disease. LDL cholesterol can trigger the buildup of fatty deposits in your arteries.  

Who are they for? Statins are mostly prescribed to people with existing heart disease, but also for those with diabetes, high cholesterol, and other risk factors who may be at increased risk of developing heart disease, helping to reduce the likelihood of future heart attacks, strokes, and other heart-related complications. 

Examples: Atorvastatin, rousuvastatin, and simvastatin. 

Antiplatelet agents

This group of medicines (which includes aspirin) prevents the platelets in your blood from sticking together. When platelets stick together, it may disrupt the flow of blood to an important organ and could lead to serious complications such as a heart attack or stroke.  

Who are they for? Antiplatelet agents are usually prescribed for people with heart disease or for certain people who are at risk of heart disease.

Examples: Aspirin, clopidogrel, and ticagrelor. 

Beta-blockers

These medications block some of the naturally occurring hormones in your blood, leading to a slower heart rate and lower blood pressure, both of which can be helpful if you have heart disease. They also lower your blood pressure. While beta-blockers can make you feel tired, don’t let that stop you from sticking to your medication schedule. If you’ve had a recent heart attack, beta-blockers can help prevent you from having another one. Talk to your provider about any side effects that you may be experiencing.

Who are they for? Beta-blockers are often prescribed for people who have had a heart attack, as well as those with heart failure, an abnormally fast heart rate, or high blood pressure.

Examples: Metoprolol, atenolol, propranolol.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)

These two common types of medication act on a chemical in your blood called angiotensin II, but in different ways. Both medications help blood vessels expand, allowing blood to flow more easily. The result: Lower blood pressure and less strain on the heart.

Who are they for? These medications are often prescribed to people with heart failure or high blood pressure.

ACE inhibitor examples: Lisinopril, enalapril, and ramipril.

ARB examples: Losartan, valsartan, and irbesartan.

Calcium channel blockers

Calcium is a mineral that causes the heart and blood vessels to contract. Calcium channel blockers interrupt the flow of calcium in these areas, helping to relax blood vessels and letting blood flow through them more freely.  

Who are they for? Calcium channel blockers are used to help manage high blood pressure, chest pain (angina) caused by poor blood supply to the heart, and (in some cases) an irregular heartbeat.

Examples: Amlodipine, diltiazem, and verapamil.

Vasodilators

As the name suggests, this type of medication dilates, or opens, blood vessels. One main category of vasodilators is nitrates, which increase the supply of blood and oxygen to your heart. They also help your heart not work so hard, which can ease chest pain.  

Who are they for? Vasodilators are typically prescribed to people who have chest pain and high blood pressure.

Examples: Hydralazine and nitroglycerin.

The bottom line: No matter what medication you’re taking, it’s important to understand why your provider prescribed it and how it can help you. So don’t be afraid to speak up, ask questions, and take charge of your health. 

If you notice new or unusual symptoms, or something doesn't feel right, contact your provider. And always talk with your provider before stopping or making changes to your medication.