Heart Disease Medications

Patients with cardiomyopathy or heart disease need to take several heart medications. Take only the medications that your healthcare provider prescribes for you. You should never skip a dose or change your dose unless directed by a member of the heart failure/transplant program.
You will have to take heart disease medications while you wait for your transplant.

Here are some of the following medications for heart disease that may be prescribed by your healthcare provider while awaiting heart transplantation:

• ACE Inhibitors
  These medications are "vasodilators" because they dilate, or widen blood vessels. Therefore, ACE inhibitors increase blood flow and reduce the amount of work the heart has to do. These also help prevent sodium and water retention and prolong survival in patients with heart failure. Some examples of ACE inhibitors include Lotensin, Captopril and Vasotec. Side effects: dizziness, lightheadedness, cough and swelling of tongue.
• Beta-Blockers
  These medications block the body's response to certain substances that damage the heart. This helps keep the heart from working too hard. These medications have been shown to prolong survival in patients with heart failure. Some examples of some of these medications are Coreg (Carvedilol) and Metopralol (Lopressor). Side effects: dizziness, lightheadedness (usually goes away after a few days of starting the medications or when the dose is increased), shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, sudden weight gain, slow heartbeat or heartbeat skips, and fatigue.
• Digoxin
  Also known as Digitalis, helps the heart pump more strongly and can help control the rhythm of the heartbeat. This improves blood circulation and reduces swelling of the feet and lower legs. It also has been shown to help patients feel better and remain out of the hospital. Side effects: decreased appetite, nausea, diarrhea, weakness, slow heartbeat, confusion, dizziness and skin rash.
• Diuretics
  These medications are often called "water pills." This is because they increase the amount of urine the body makes, helping get rid of extra fluids and sodium. Some types of "water pills" cause your body to lose potassium; therefore you may be on a potassium supplement. Some examples are Lasix and Spironolactone. Side effects: night time urination, dizziness, lightheadedness when getting up from a sitting or lying position, muscle cramps, nausea and skin rash.
• Furosemide (Lasix)
  Is a diuretic (water pill) that rids the body of excess fluid. Your body may lose potassium while taking this drug. You may have to take potassium supplements or increase the potassium in your diet (more bananas and citrus fruits, for instance) while taking this drug. Side effects: dry mouth, thirst, muscle weakness, cramps, and frequent urination.
• Spironolactone (Aldactone)
  Is a diuretic (water pill) that rids the body of excess fluid. This drug may hold potassium in your body. Avoid taking potassium supplements unless directed by your doctor. Side effects: drowsiness, headache, cramps, diarrhea and enlargement of the breasts.