The doctor may have told you or someone in your family that you have "Heart Failure". He may have prescribed you a lot of different types of medication, right? You may be wondering, "Why on earth have I been given so many different types of medication? Doesn't each of these do the same thing?" This is a question that many people have. So today, let's talk about the medications for heart failure in a very simple way.
First, let's see what heart failure is.
When you hear this name, some people are afraid, "Oh, my heart has stopped working?" That's not the case. Heart failure is a condition in which your heart muscle becomes weak and cannot pump blood efficiently enough to meet the body's needs. Think of it like a water pump that gets old and can't pump water as well as it used to.
When the heart's pumping ability decreases in this way, fluid begins to accumulate in various parts of the body, especially in the lungs, legs, and ankles. This is what we call `(Congestive Heart Failure)`. This can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs .
The important thing is that this is a progressive condition. Therefore, it is essential to receive the right treatment throughout your life. Although these medications cannot completely cure the condition, they can help control the worsening of the disease and maintain your quality of life.
What are the main medications for heart failure?
In heart failure, several types of drugs are used together instead of one drug. The reason for this is that each type of drug performs a different function in the body. Just like each player in a cricket team has a different function. Your doctor will determine the most suitable combination of drugs for you based on your symptoms, other medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, and the nature of your disease.
Let's take a simple look at these main types of medications and how they work from the table below.
| Drug category | Functionality (in simple terms) | Commonly used medications (examples) |
|---|---|---|
| ACE Inhibitors | It dilates blood vessels, reduces the workload on the heart, and controls blood pressure. | Enalapril, Lisinopril, Ramipril, Captopril |
| Angiotensin-2 Receptor Blockers (ARBs) | They work in a similar way to ACE inhibitors. These are given to people who experience side effects like coughing due to ACE inhibitors. | Losartan, Valsartan, Candesartan |
| Beta Blockers | It slows down the heart rate a little, giving the heart a rest. It increases the heart's efficiency over time. | Carvedilol, Bisoprolol, Metoprolol Succinate |
| Diuretics (water pills) | It removes excess fluid (water) accumulated in the body through urine. It reduces swelling in the legs and shortness of breath. | Furosemide (Lasix), Spironolactone, Hydrochlorothiazide |
| ARNIs (ARNI) | These are a new, powerful type of medication. They increase hormones that protect the heart and reduce harmful hormones. | Sacubitril/Valsartan (Entresto®) |
| SGLT2 Inhibitors | Although initially given for diabetes, these have been found to reduce the risk of hospitalization due to heart failure. | Dapagliflozin, Empagliflozin |
| Digoxin | It slightly increases the strength of the heart's contractions. It is also given to those with irregular heartbeats. | Digoxin (Lanoxin®) |
Are we also aware of the side effects?
Like any medicine, these medicines can have side effects. However, not everyone gets all of these side effects . Some are very rare. But it's important to be aware of them.
- Dizziness and headaches: Some medications can cause dizziness, especially when you stand up suddenly from a sitting position, as they lower blood pressure.
- Dry cough: Some people taking medications, especially those in the ACE Inhibitors group, may develop a persistent dry cough.
- Fatigue: You may feel a little tired when you first start taking beta blockers, but this will go away as your body gets used to it.
- Changes in potassium levels: Some medications can increase potassium levels in the blood, while some water pills can decrease them. This is why doctors often recommend blood tests.
- Effects on the kidneys: Some medications can have a slight effect on kidney function. This is also monitored through blood tests.
- Other: Some people may also experience things like muscle twitching, nausea, and skin infections.
The most important thing is to talk to your doctor right away if you experience any new symptoms, anything unusual, or any side effects like this, rather than trying to treat it yourself. He or she may be able to adjust the dosage or switch you to a different medication.
Do I need to change my lifestyle along with medication?
Yes, absolutely. Medication is only half the battle. The other half depends on your lifestyle.
- Salt control: Reduce the amount of salt you add to your meals. Things like canned foods, processed meats, sauces, and pickles are high in salt.
- Exercise: As per your doctor's advice, engage in simple exercises that are suitable for you. Even walking is sufficient.
- Smoking and alcohol: Both are not good for the heart at all. It is best to quit completely.
- Weight control: Weigh yourself at the same time every day and record your weight. If you suddenly gain 2 kilos in two or three days, it could be water retention. If that happens, talk to your doctor.
- Mental health: It's normal to feel tired and sad when living with a long-term illness like this. Talk about it openly with your family and doctor.
Some simple tips for managing medication
- Get your medicine before it runs out: Get your next dose of medicine from the pharmacy a few days before it runs out.
- Keep a list: Keep a book with the name, dosage (how much), and when to take every medicine you take. Take it with you every time you see a doctor.
- Don't stop taking your medication: Never stop taking your medication without your doctor's advice, just because you think you're feeling better. You may feel better because the medication is working properly. Stopping it could make your condition worse.
- If you are pregnant or expecting a baby: Some medications are not suitable for use during pregnancy. Therefore, if you have any concerns, inform your doctor immediately.
Take-Home Message
- Heart failure is not a heart attack. It is a weakening of the heart's pumping ability.
- The medications you are given for this will need to be taken for the rest of your life. They will help prolong your life and maintain a good quality of life.
- Several types of medication are given because each medication performs different functions.
- Even if you feel better, never stop taking medication or change the dosage without medical advice.
- If you develop any new symptoms or side effects, don't panic and talk to your doctor immediately.
- Along with medication, a low-salt diet and a healthy lifestyle are essential to controlling this disease.
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