Lifestyle changes, as difficult as they sometimes may be, are an important factor in managing any degree of heart disease. But for some heart patients, lifestyle changes often need to be coupled with one or more medications to effectively control their heart condition.

Some medications, like diuretics, work to lessen the amount of fluid the heart has to pump throughout the body; others, like digitalis, work to strengthen the heart muscle itself. Heart disease medications can also control blood pressure, help the heart relax and rebuild, prevent blood clots from forming, relieve chest pain and maintain a steady heartbeat.

"Medications can only help if you take them as prescribed," explains Bryan S. Beck, MD, cardiologist on staff at Saint Francis Medical Center's Heart Institute. "Monitoring heart medication usage is extremely important. It should be done regularly and by a heart specialist."

By working closely with your cardiologist, you can help avoid problems associated with taking too little or too much medication. You'll also become aware of dangerous interactions or side effects with other medications or foods in your diet.

Take an active role in your treatment by asking questions about your medications:

What is the brand or generic name of the medication?
What is the medicine supposed to do?
How and when do I take it and for how long?
What foods, drinks, other medicines or activities should I avoid while taking it?
What are the possible side effects? What action do I take if they occur?

To avoid adverse reactions, provide your doctor with a current list of all the you take – prescription and nonprescription drugs, herbal products, home remedies and vitamins – and medications you cannot take because of an allergic reaction. Also, don't stop or change the dosage of any heart medication without your doctor's knowledge. It can worsen your condition.

"Your healthcare professionals will keep working with you to adjust your treatment plan if you have serious side effects," says Beck. "By taking medications exactly as prescribed and following appropriate lifestyle recommendations, you can help reduce your risk of having a heart attack or stroke and achieve the most from your treatment plan."

From Weekly Health Page: Feb. 25, 2007