The types of medicines your doctor has prescribed depend on your heart condition. For people who have had a heart attack, it is normal to take more than one type of medicine.
Remember, you will need to take many of these medicines over the long term to reduce your risk of another heart event. Medicines are an important part of keeping you well and able to do the things you love. Never stop taking your medicines or change the dose unless your doctor tells you to.
All medicines have possible side effects. Before starting a new medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist about the possible side effects. If you get any side effects, speak to your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.
| Medicine type | How they work |
|---|---|
| Medicines to manage blood pressure |
These medicines help to maintain a healthy blood pressure. This is important to improve the flow of oxygen-rich blood around the body. Some blood pressure medicines also help the heart to pump more easily and efficiently. Blood pressure medicines are also often prescribed to people who have had a heart attack or stroke to reduce the risk of further events. There are many different types of blood pressure medicines including:
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| Medicines to manage cholesterol (lipid-lowering medicines) | These medicines help to manage the level of cholesterol and other fats in your blood. They can prevent fatty plaques building up in blood vessels (arteries). These medicines can also stabilise plaques so they are less likely to rupture and form blood clots, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. If you have had a heart attack, your doctor may start you on lipid-lowering medicines in hospital. You’ll need to keep taking these over the long term to reduce the risk of another heart event. Examples of lipid-lowering medicines include statins, ezetimibe and a class of medicines called PCSK9 inhibitors. |
| Medicines to prevent and treat angina |
These medicines are known as ‘nitrate medicines’. They improve the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. Nitrate medicines come in different forms and are often prescribed after a heart attack or angina episode.
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| Medicines to stop blood clots forming | Anticoagulants and antiplatelets can help prevent blood clots forming. Anticoagulants can also treat existing blood clots. These medicines reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke. If you have a stent, these medicines can help prevent blood components from sticking together and forming clots. |