There are many different medicines that are prescribed within the treatment of heart disease. You may have to take several different medicines every day. Though this can sometimes be difficult to deal with, try to remember your doctor is aiming to keep you as well as possible and will try to find the best medicines for you with the fewest side effects.
If prescribed medicines:
There are lots of different medicines used to treat diseases of the heart, but they all belong to a few main groups, including:
The medicines within each group are similar, but may have minor variations in how they work.
Occasionally, two medicines may be combined into one tablet.
All this means that there is a wide variety of medicines to choose from to best meet your individual needs. Sometimes, the same medicine can even be used to treat a number of different conditions.
A single medicine may have several different names. Each one has an official name, called the ‘generic’ or ‘non-proprietary’ name. It may also be prescribed under one or more brand names, or ‘proprietary names’.
Most medicines need to be taken regularly, as prescribed by your doctor. Some medicines need to be taken only when you get a particular symptom, like angina.
Like most people, you’ll probably not experience any side effects at all. Even if you do, they can sometimes disappear after a while.
For more information about possible side effects of your medicines, read the information leaflet that comes with the medicine. If you’re worried about side effects, speak to your GP or pharmacist.
If you develop any new, persistent or troublesome symptoms after starting a medicine, tell your doctor about them immediately.
They may be able to reduce the dose or prescribe a different medicine.
Don’t stop taking your prescribed medicines without medical advice, because this could make your condition worse.
Some medicines contain sodium, which is found in salt. Having a large amount of salt in your diet increases the risk of having high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Check the information sheets that come with your medicine. If you’re worried, ask your GP or pharmacist.
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can affect the way a number of medicines for heart conditions work. For example, they can increase the effect of the medicine, which can make you feel unwell. If you’re worried about whether it’s safe for you to have grapefruit or grapefruit juice, ask your GP or pharmacist.
There are some medicines pregnant or breastfeeding women shouldn’t take. If you need to take medicines for a heart condition, your doctor will consider the risks to both you and your baby very carefully.
Usually, medicines should only be prescribed in pregnancy if the expected benefit to the mother is thought to be greater than the risk to the baby. You should avoid taking any medicines during the first three months of pregnancy if possible. If you do need to take medicines, you’ll be given the safest one available.
Many medicines have side effects that are potentially harmful during pregnancy. Talk to your GP or midwife before taking any medicines – even ones you can buy over the counter without a prescription.
Last updated:
01 March 2023