www.irishheart.

ie

STEP BY STEP THROUGH

HEART MEDICINES

In association with
Produced by the Irish Heart Foundation
Produced by the Irish Heart Foundation in association with the Irish Association of
Cardiac Rehabilitation. This booklet is one of the publications in our patient
information series.

Funding
This booklet has been funded by public donations.

Acknowledgments
The Irish Heart Foundation and the Irish Association of Cardiac Rehabilitation would
like to thank Claire Kingston, Pharmacist, and Marie Minogue, Clinical Nurse
Specialist, St Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin for preparing this booklet.
The Irish Heart Foundation
We are the national charity fighting heart disease and stroke. More people in Ireland
die from these causes than from cancer, road deaths and suicide combined. We
work to bring hope, relief and a better future to Irish families. We support
pioneering medical research, campaign for improved patient care and provide vital
support and information for patients. In hospitals, schools and workplaces, we
support, educate and train people to save lives. As a charity we depend on your
ongoing support - through your donations or by giving of your time as a volunteer
or on a training course.

For more information or to donate, visit our website: www.irishheart.ie

Heart and Stroke Helpline:

Locall 1890 432 787 (Monday to Friday 10.00am to 5.00pm)

Irish Heart Foundation,

50 Ringsend Road,
Dublin 4.

Phone: +353 1 668 5001

Fax: +353 1 668 5896
Email: info@irishheart.ie
Contents
Introduction 3

Things you should know about your medicine 3

Other things to think about 4

Medicines table 5

Medicine details 9

More information 31

The Irish Association of Cardiac Rehabilitation (IACR)

The IACR was established in 1995. It is a multidisciplinary group under the auspices
of the Irish Heart Foundation. It endeavours to promote a greater awareness and
understanding of cardiac rehabilitation in Ireland and to facilitate communication
and support between multi-disciplinary groups involved in the area.
The IACR works to:
• Advocate on behalf of cardiac rehabilitation in Ireland to ensure the service is
protected, developed and available to all who require it.
• Co-operate and fully collaborate with existing international organisations working
in this field to promote an evidence based approach to client care with cardiac
rehabilitation.
• Improve the standard of professional education within cardiovascular
rehabilitation through the promotion of conferences, scientific meetings,
publications and contact with appropriate international agencies.
• Encourage support and communication between cardiac rehabilitation
multidisciplinary professionals who wish to promote a greater awareness and
understanding of cardiac rehabilitation throughout the healthcare system.

For more information visit our website: www.iacr.info

2
 Introduction
You should use this booklet alongside the advice that your doctor gives you
about your heart condition, and the information leaflet in the medicine
packet. If you have any questions about your medicines, please ask your
doctor, pharmacist or nurse.
This booklet describes the different medicines used for people with heart
conditions such as angina, heart rhythm disorders or after a heart attack.
It also explains about medicines used to manage heart disease risk factors
such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and also about medicines
to help prevent blood clotting.
Your heart’s main job is to pump blood around your body. The medicines
you take are to make your heart work better for longer.

Information you should know about your medicine

These medicines are usually for life. Keep a list of all the medicines you
take. Remember to keep the list up to date. If you have any allergies, keep a
list of these too. If you need to go into hospital, bring your list and all of
your tablets with you.
Be familiar with each of the medicines that are prescribed for you. It’s
important to know the following:

• Name: Each medicine has two names. The name the company gives is
called the brand name. The generic name is the name of the drug itself.
Both these names are usually on the packet.
• Dose: The strength and how many times you take the medicine each day.
• Why you are taking it and how it works.
• How best to take it (for example, after food, at bedtime).

Try not to miss a dose. If you remember later that day, take the medicine
as usual. If you don’t remember until the next day, leave out the missed
dose and don’t take a double dose.
Before buying any medicines from your pharmacy (cough medicine,

3
supplements, or herbal or complementary medicines), check that they are
suitable for you, and that they do not interfere with the prescription
medicines you are taking. Your pharmacist will be able to tell you this.
Store your medicines in a cool, dry place. Always keep your medicine
where children cannot see or reach them. Check the expiry date of old
medicines and return any out-of-date medicines to your pharmacy so they
can get rid of them safely.
Medicines may cause side effects. These usually only affect a small
number of people. Some may be more serious than others. If you feel you
have a side effect, it is very important not to stop taking the medicine
before talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
Do not change or stop your medicines without talking to your doctor.

Other things to think about

If you have trouble opening your medicine container, reading the labels,
or do not understand the instructions, tell your pharmacist. If you find it
difficult to swallow your medicines, your doctor or pharmacist may have
suggestions.
Grapefruit (both juice and fruit) has been shown to affect how many heart
medications break down (metabolise) in your body. For safety reasons, it is
better to avoid all grapefruit products when you are on these medicines.
If you are paying for your medicines, and they are expensive, make sure
you are registered with the Drugs Payments Scheme (DPS). This means that
you and your family will not have to pay more than €120 each month*. Talk
to your pharmacist about registering for this scheme.
Tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist about any allergies or reactions to
medicines you’ve had in the past.
If you find it hard to remember when to take your medicines, ask your
doctor or pharmacist for some suggestions. You could use a calendar,
ticking off when you take your medicines.
* Based on the current Drugs Payment Scheme as at July 2011.

4
 Medicines Table
This is an example of different drugs available. It is not a complete list. You
may be prescribed a brand of medicine that is not listed here. Ask your
nurse or pharmacist to write in the details of the medicine in the table.

Drug Class Drug (generic) Brand Name Page

Name
ACE Inhibitors Captopril Capoten® Aceomel® Captor® 9
Enalapril Innovace® Enap®
Angiotensin
Converting Lisinopril Zestril® Carace® Lisopress® Lispril®
Enzyme Zesger® Byzestra®
Perindopril Coversyl®
Quinapril Accupro®
Ramipril Tritace® Ramic® Ramilo®
Combination products are also available.
Examples are: Accuretic® Capozide®
Coversyl-Plus® Innozide® Zestoretic®
(combined with a diuretic) and Acerycal®
or Triapin® (combined with a calcium
channel blocker).

Aldosterone Eplerenone Inspra® 11

Antagonists
Spironolactone Aldactone®

Alpha Blockers Doxazosin Cardura® 12

Prazosin Hypovase®
Terazosin Hytrin®

Angiotensin II Candesartan Atacand® 13

Antagonists
Eprosartan Teveten®
( = Angiotensin
Receptor Losartan Cozaar®
Blockers)
Olmesartan Omesar® Benetor®
Telmisartan Micardis®
Valsartan Diovan®
Combination products are also available.
These include: Co-Diovan® Cozaar-
Comp® Atacand Plus® Omesar
Plus/Benetor Plus® Micardis Plus®
(combined with a diuretic), and
Konverge® Exforge® Twynsta® (combined
5 with a calcium channel blocker).
Drug Class Drug (generic) Brand Name Page
Name
Antiplatelet Aspirin Aspirin 14
Drugs
Clopidogrel Plavix®
Prasugrel Efient®

Beta Blockers Atenolol Tenormin® Atenomel® Atecor® 16

Atenogen® Amolin® Ateni®
Bisoprolol Emcor® Cardicor® Bisopine®
Bisocor® Emcolol® Soprol®
Carvedilol Eucardiac®
Celiprolol Selectol®
Metoprolol Betaloc® Lopresor® Metocor®
Metop®
Nebivolol Nebilet®
Propranolol Inderal®
Sotalol Sotacor®
Combination products are also
available. Examples are: Atecor CT®
Tenoret 50® Tenoretic® Atenetic®
(combined with a diuretic)and Beta-
Adalat® or Niften® (combined with a
calcium channel blocker).

Calcium Dihydropyridine derivatives: 18

Channel
Amlodipine Istin® Amlist®
Blockers
Felodipine Plendil®
Lercanidipine Zanidip®
Nifedipine Adalat® Nifed®
Non-dihydropyridine derivatives:
Diltiazem Dilzem® Adizem® Entrydil®
Verapamil Isoptin® Veramil®

6
 Drug Class Drug (generic) Brand Name Page
Name
Cholesterol Atorvastatin Lipitor® 20
Lowering Drugs
Fluvastatin Lescol®
(Statins)
Pravastatin Lipostat® Pravitin® Pravamel®
Pravat® Bystat® Cholstat®
Rosuvastatin Crestor®
Simvastatin Zocor® Sivatin® Simator® Simzor®
Simtan® Ritechol®

Other Cholesterol Ezetemibe Ezetrol® 22

Lowering Drugs
Nicotinic acid Niaspan®
Fibrates: Fibrates :
Fenofibrate Lipantil®
Gemfibrozil Lopid®

Cardiac glycosides Digoxin Lanoxin® 23

Diuretics Bendro- 24
flumethiazide Centyl®
Bumetanide Burinex®
Furosemide Lasix®

Sinoatrial Current Ivabradine Procoralan® 25

Inhibitors

Nitrates Sublingual Glytrin® or Nitrolingual® 26

Spray
Buccal tablets Suscard®
Oral tablets Imdur® Elantan® Elantan LA ®
Patches Transiderm® Deponit®

Potassium Nicorandil Ikorel® 28

Channel Openers

Anticoagulants Warfarin Warfant® 29

Warfarin Teva®
Dabigatran Pradaxa®

7
Drug Class Drug Name Info

8
 ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) Inhibitors

What do they do?

ACE inhibitors work on a substance in the body called ACE – Angiotensin
Converting Enzyme. They are an important family of medicines that have
many different uses.

• After a heart attack, they can help prevent another one, and stop any
further damage to the heart.
• They lower blood pressure.
• They protect the kidneys if you have diabetes.
• They improve symptoms of heart failure and slow the progression of the
disease.
Examples
Captopril (Capoten®, Aceomel®, Captor®), Enalapril (Innovace®, Enap®),
Lisinopril (Zestril®, Carace®, Lisopress®, Lispril®, Zesger®, Byzestra®),
Perindopril (Coversyl®), Quinapril (Accupro®), Ramipril (Tritace®, Ramic®
Ramilo®).

Sometimes these drugs are combined with another drug if your blood
pressure is still high. Examples are Accuretic®, Capozide®, Coversyl-Plus®,
Innozide®, Zestoretic®, (combined with a diuretic), and Acerycal®, Triapin®
(combined with a calcium channel blocker).

How and when should I take them?

Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist. They are usually taken in the morning
after breakfast. However, it is better to take perindopril on an empty
stomach.

9
Side effects
Some people may develop a persistent, dry irritating cough on these
medicines. It is most likely to happen if you have recently started on an ACE
inhibitor. You should let your doctor know if this happens. Some ACE
inhibitors may also affect your sense of taste, or cause skin rashes. You may
also get a headache or your sleep may be disturbed, but this will usually
improve over time.

If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have recently started on
the medicine or your dose has increased you should speak to your doctor or
pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine packet contains
more information on side effects.

The medicines
you take are to
make your heart
work better for
longer

10
 Aldosterone Antagonists

What do they do?

Aldosterone Antagonists block the effect of the hormone aldosterone on
the heart. By blocking its effect they can help maintain the pumping ability
of the heart. Aldosterone Antagonists are used to treat heart failure and
sometimes after a heart attack.

Examples
Eplerenone (Inspra®), Spironolactone (Aldactone®)

How and when should I take them?

Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist.

Side effects
Eplerenone and Spironolactone can cause a rise in the body’s potassium
level so check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any potassium
supplements or products containing potassium.

Spironolactone can cause breast pain and breast growth (in men). This is
normally reversible when spironolactone is discontinued.

If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have recently started on
the medicine or your dose has been increased you should speak to your
doctor or pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine packet
contains more information on side effects.

11
 Alpha-Blockers

What do they do?

Alpha-blockers relax the blood vessels by blocking the nerve signals that
cause them to constrict (tighten). Alpha-blockers are used to lower blood
pressure. They may also be used to manage symptoms of an enlarged
prostate.

Examples
Doxazosin (Cardura®), Prazosin (Hypovase®), Terazosin (Hytrin®) .

How and when should I take them?

Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist. They are normally taken in the morning
after breakfast.

Side effects
Side effects may include dizziness, headache, facial flushing and a stuffy
nose. If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have recently
started on the medicine or your dose has increased you should speak to
your doctor or pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine
packet contains more information on side effects.

12
 Angiotensin II Antagonists ( = Angiotensin Receptor Blockers)

What do they do?

These drugs are closely related to the ACE inhibitors. They are used for
similar conditions as the ACE inhibitors, but work in a slightly different way.
You may even be prescribed both medicines.
Examples
Candesartan (Atacand®), Eprosartan (Teveten®), Losartan (Cozaar®),
Olmesartan (Omesar®, Benetor®), Telmisartan (Micardis®), Valsartan
(Diovan®).

Combination products are also available. Examples are: Atacand Plus®,

Co-Diovan®, Cozaar- Comp®, Micardis Plus®, Omesar Plus/Benetor Plus®,
(combined with a diuretic), and Exforge®, Konverge®, Twynsta® (combined
with a calcium channel blocker).
How and when should I take them?
Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist.
Side effects
Dizziness, headache, fatigue and flu symptoms are the most common side
effects with these medicines. If you experience any side effects, particularly
if you have recently started on the medicine or your dose has been
increased you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist. The patient
information leaflet in the medicine packet contains more information on
side effects.

Anything else I need to know?

If you have developed a troublesome cough with your ACE inhibitor
medicine, these may provide a good alternative.

13
 Antiplatelet Drugs

What do they do?

Antiplatelets reduce the stickiness of platelets, the small blood cells that can
clump together to form a clot. This helps to prevent clots in your blood
vessels. They can also help prevent blood clotting in the vein grafts used in
coronary bypass surgery. These drugs help prevent heart attacks and
strokes.
Examples:

Aspirin
Aspirin is the most common antiplatelet used. The drug is also found in
some over-the-counter preparations, but the dose that is needed for your
heart is much lower than would be needed to relieve a headache or lower
your temperature. There are two types of preparation:
• Coated tablets (enteric coated) – these should be swallowed whole.
• Soluble tablets – these can be dissolved in water or swallowed whole.
How and when should I take it?
You should take aspirin with or after food.

Side effects
Side effects can include bleeding or bruising, indigestion, tummy upsets and
very rarely, ulcers. Some people may be allergic to, or sensitive to aspirin,
particularly some people with asthma.

14
 Clopidogrel
Clopidogrel (Plavix®) is another antiplatelet. It may be used on its own (for
example if aspirin does not suit you) or with aspirin in certain situations. For
example, if you have experienced a severe type of chest pain known as
unstable angina, have had a heart attack or angioplasty including a stent.
Clopidogrel and aspirin are usually used together for a year, after which time
the clopidogrel may be stopped. Your doctor may decide on this
combination of medicines for a shorter time or may keep you on the two
antiplatelets for much longer. This will depend on what the doctor thinks is
right for you.

Prasugrel
Prasugrel (Efient®) is a new antiplatelet that can be used instead of
clopidogrel after you have had angioplasty and a stent inserted.
How and when should I take it?
You should take clopidogrel and prasugrel with or after food.

Side effects
Clopidogrel and prasugrel, like aspirin, may cause bleeding such as bruising,
nosebleeds or ulcers. Other side effects are headache, diarrhoea and rashes.
Tell your doctor if you get any of these.

Anything else I need to know?

Do not take painkillers containing aspirin. These include Disprin® and
Anadin®. Ask your pharmacist for advice. If you have a history of breathing
problems (asthma), tell your doctor.

If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have recently started on
the medicine or your dose has increased you should speak to your doctor or
pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine packet contains
more information on side effects.

15
 Beta Blockers

What do they do?

Beta blockers are a group of medicines that are used for angina, high blood
pressure, irregular heart rhythms, and after a heart attack. They may also be
used in heart failure.

In high blood pressure, beta blockers block the effect of adrenaline-like

substances in the body and lower blood pressure. They also improve the
efficiency of your heart by making its rhythm more regular.

Beta blockers reduce the effect of stress hormones that make the heart beat
faster and more vigorously. This slows the rate and force of the contraction
of your heart. The effect is to reduce the workload on the heart by
reducing the amount of oxygen needed by the heart muscle. This
can help symptoms of angina (chest pain).

Ask your
pharmacist if you
have questions
about your
medicine

16
 Beta blockers have a protective effect on the heart after a heart attack.
They reduce the severity of heart attacks and the risk of future heart attacks.

In heart failure they reduce symptoms and improve the pumping function
of the heart.
Examples
Atenolol (Tenormin®, Atenomel®, Atecor®, Atenogen®, Amolin®, Ateni®)
Bisoprolol (Emcor®, Cardicor®, Bisopine®, Bisocor®, Emcolol®, Soprol®)
Carvedilol (Eucardic®), Celiprolol (Selectol®), Metoprolol (Betaloc®,
Lopresor®, Metocor®, Metop®), Nebivolol (Nebilet®), Propranolol (Inderal®),
Sotalol (Sotacor®).

Combination products are also available. Examples are: Atecor CT®, Tenoret
50®, Tenoretic®, Atenetic® (combined with a diuretic) and Beta-Adalat® or
Niften® (combined with a calcium channel blocker).

How and when should I take them?

Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist. You normally take beta blockers after
breakfast with a glass of water. However, it is best to take Metoprolol on an
empty stomach, usually twice a day.

Side effects
Side effects include tiredness, dizziness, headache, cold hands and feet,
sweating, disturbed sleep, nightmares, fatigue and depression. Tell your
doctor if any of these happen. Some people with diabetes find that their
blood sugar levels rise a little when they start taking a beta-blocker. It may
also make it more difficult for you to notice when your blood sugar drops
(hypos).

If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have recently started
on the medicine or your dose has increased you should speak to your
doctor or pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the
medicine packet contains more information on side effects.

17
 Calcium Channel Blockers

What do they do?

Calcium channel blockers reduce the amount of calcium entering the
muscle cells in your heart and blood vessels. This relaxes the blood vessels,
and lowers your blood pressure. Some of them (non-dihydropyridine
derivatives) also lower your heart rate. They increase blood and oxygen
supply to the heart muscle and reduce its workload. This group of medicines
is mainly used for angina and to manage irregular heart rhythms. Another
group (the dihydropyridine derivatives) are mainly used to treat high blood
pressure.
Examples
Dihydropyridine derivatives:
Amlodipine (Istin®, Amlist®), Felodipine (Plendil®), Lercanidipine
(Zanidip®), Nifedipine (Adalat®, Nifed®).
Non-dihydropyridine derivatives:
Diltiazem (Dilzem®, Adizem®, Entrydil®), Verapamil (Isoptin®, Veramil®).

How and when should I take them?

Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist. You normally take calcium channel
blockers after food with a glass of water. However, it is best to take
lercanidipine on an empty stomach.

Side effects
Side effects include headache, swelling of the ankles, facial flushing,
dizziness and difficulty sleeping. These effects may go away within a week
or so. Verapamil may cause constipation.

If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have recently started on
the medicine or your dose has increased you should speak to your doctor or
pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine packet contains
more information on side effects.

18
 Anything else I need to know?
Some of these medicines are available as a slow-release preparation. You
will know this by the letters LA, Retard, SR or XL after the medicine name.
If this is the case it is important to always take the same brand of your
medicine. This is because different brands can vary in how they release the
drug into your bloodstream.

Return
out-of-date
medicines
to your
pharmacist

19
 Cholesterol-lowering drugs

Having high cholesterol is one of the risk factors for heart disease, and so it
is important that you keep your cholesterol level healthy. You can do this
through a combination of healthy eating and medicines. There are two
main types of cholesterol - high density lipoprotein – (HDL) and low density
lipoprotein (LDL). Triglycerides (TGs) are another type of fat found in your
blood. See the Irish Heart Foundation’s booklet on cholesterol for more
information.

It is particularly important that your LDL level (bad cholesterol) is kept low.
Different drugs can lower different fats by different amounts. These drugs
are usually long-term medicines. This is because your cholesterol will only
be lowered as long as you take the medicine.

Statins
What do they do?
Statins are the main cholesterol drugs used. They lower cholesterol by
reducing the production of cholesterol by your liver. They are an extremely
important family of medicines for people with cardiovascular disease.
Although one of their main functions is to lower cholesterol, they have other
favourable effects on the cardiovascular system. As a result, they are even
used in people whose cholesterol is normal. Taking your statin regularly can
help slow down the build up of plaque (fatty deposits) in your blood vessels
and stabilise plaque that is already there.

Your doctor may occasionally prescribe a very high dose of a statin to avail
of its anti-inflammatory property, even when your cholesterol is normal or in
the low-normal range.

20
 Examples
Atorvastatin (Lipitor®), Fluvastatin (Lescol®), Pravastatin (Lipostat®,
Pravitin®, Pravamel®, Pravat®, Bystat®, Cholstat®), Rosuvastatin (Crestor®),or
Simvastatin (Zocor®, Sivatin®, Simator®, Simzor®, Simtan®, Ritechol®).
How and when should I take them?
Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist. Most of the cholesterol that your liver
makes is produced at night-time so you may have been told to take your
statin at night. This is necessary, only if you have been prescribed
fluvastatin, pravastatin or simvastatin. If you are taking atorvastatin or
rosuvastatin, you can take these medicines at whatever time of the day best
suits you.
Side effects
These are usually mild and include indigestion and headache. Rarely,
people can have liver problems and inflammation of the muscles (myositis).
Because of this, you should have your liver function tested shortly after
starting the statin and then once a year. You should tell your doctor
immediately if your urine is dark (brown) or if you have any unexpected
muscle pains, tenderness or weakness, particularly if your dose has recently
been increased or you have started another new medication.

If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have been recently
started on the medicine or your dose has increased you should speak to
your doctor or pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine
packet contains more information on side effects.

Anything else I need to know?

It is important to know that statins are very safe medicines and have many
beneficial effects on your cardiovascular system.

21
Other cholesterol-lowering drugs

Ezetemibe (Ezetrol)
Ezetemibe is another cholesterol-lowering drug that works by reducing the
amount of cholesterol that your body absorbs from your gut. It is best used
in combination with a statin, for example if your cholesterol is still high on a
statin alone (e.g. Inegy®). Ezetemibe can, however, be also used on its own if
a statin does not suit you, although it will not be as effective.

Nicotinic acid (Niaspan®)

Nicotinic acid lowers LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides (TG), by
reducing the amount your body produces. Nicotinic acid is particularly good
at increasing the amount of HDL (good cholesterol) in the body.

With Niaspan®, flushing is a common side effect, although taking your tablet
in the evening time, (after a low-fat snack) and taking your aspirin 30
minutes before your Niaspan® may reduce this. This side effect usually
improves after a few weeks. Other side effects may include indigestion
(dyspepsia), itching and skin rashes.

Fibrates – fenofibrate (Lipantil®), gemfibrozil (Lopid®)

Fibrates are a group of cholesterol-lowering drugs that are particularly good
at lowering TGs as well as LDL. You may be prescribed a fibrate together
with your statin. If you are taking a fibrate with a statin it’s even more
important to have regular liver function tests and a review by your
cardiologist. Your GP should arrange these tests for you.

22
 Cardiac Glycosides

What does it do?

This slows and strengthens the heart beat, which allows it to pump more
efficiently. It is often used to treat atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm
problem where the heart beats irregularly, usually too fast. The drug can
also be used in heart failure to reduce symptoms.
Examples
Digoxin (Lanoxin®)
There are two strengths of tablets available

• Blue – 62.5 microgram tablets (Lanoxin PG®)

• White – 250 microgram tablets (Lanoxin®)
How and when should I take them?
Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist.
Side effects
These may include feeling sick or having an upset stomach. Less commonly,
it may cause vomiting, palpitations, dizziness and drowsiness. If you get any
of these symptoms you should tell your doctor as he or she may need to
adjust your dose. Your doctor can check the level of digoxin in your blood
to make sure you are on the correct dose.

If you have any side effects, particularly if you have recently started on the
medicine or your dose has increased, you should speak to your doctor or
pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine packet contains
more information on side effects.

Anything else I need to know?

If your dose is 125 micrograms, for example, it is more accurate to take two
of the blue tablets rather than half a white tablet.

23
 Diuretics

What do they do?

These are also called ‘water tablets’. They are used to reduce fluid retention
(oedema) that may cause ankle swelling or shortness of breath. They clear
excess body water by increasing the amount of salt and water released in
your urine. They also lower blood pressure.
Examples
Bendroflumethiazide (Centyl®), Bumetanide (Burinex®), and Furosemide
(Lasix®).
How and when should I take them?
Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist. Diuretics are usually prescribed once or
twice a day. If you take this medicine once a day, take it in the morning.
If a second dose is prescribed, taking it after lunch will help prevent you
needing to go to the toilet during the night.
Side effects
Headache, muscle cramps, dry mouth, thirst, weakness, drowsiness and
nausea may occur.

If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have recently started on
the medicine or your dose has increased you should speak to your doctor or
pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine packet contains
more information on side effects.

Anything else I need to know?

Some diuretics can affect your potassium level, and your doctor may
arrange a blood test to check the level. If it is low you may be given a
potassium supplement or a diuretic with an extra medicine (potassium
sparing diuretic) to keep the level in balance. Examples of these include
Frumil® (= furosemide + amiloride) or Centyl K® (contains potassium).

24
 Sinoatrial Current Inhibitors

What does it do?

This drug lowers the heart rate, by its action on the sinus node. It is a new
medicine for angina that can be used instead of beta-blockers when they
are not suitable or tolerated, or in combination with beta-blockers for added
effect. It lowers the heart’s need for oxygen, particularly in situations when
you are more likely to have an angina attack.
Examples
Ivabradine (Procoralan®)

How and when should I take them?

Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist. You should take this tablet with or after
food.
Side effects
This may affect your vision with brief moments of increased brightness,
most often due to a change in light intensity (temporary luminous visual
phenomena). If this happens be careful when driving especially when
driving at night. Other possible side effects include headache, dizziness,
blurred vision and palpitations.

If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have recently started on
the medicine or your dose has increased you should speak to your doctor or
pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine packet contains
more information on side effects.

25
 Nitrates

What do they do?

Nitrates are used mainly for angina. They relax the muscles in the walls of
the veins and arteries (including coronary arteries) and make them wider.
This improves blood flow to the heart. The oxygen in the blood helps to
either prevent or treat angina (chest pain).
Examples:
There are many different formulations of nitrates available.

a) Injection – only used in hospitals

b) Sublingual Spray (Glytrin® or Nitrolingual®) and Buccal tablets
(Suscard®)
These are used, when needed, to relieve angina or if you are going to do
something that you know is likely to bring on angina. You should use the
spray under your tongue. Make sure you know how to use it and store
the spray out of direct sunlight.

Some tablets (Suscard®), may also be used, like the spray, when you need
them. You put them between your lip and gum, and let them dissolve
there. You may get a throbbing headache when using these products. If
this happens, take two paracetamol tablets (unless you are allergic to
paracetamol) for the pain. If you have taken the Suscard, and the pain
has gone, you may spit out the rest of the tablet if you want.

You can feel flushed, dizzy or faint when taking these medicines. Because
of this, it is important to sit down before using these medicines and to
stay sitting for a few minutes afterwards.

26
 c) Regular or slow release tablets, for example Elantan®, Elantan LA®,
Imdur®.
Another formulation of a nitrate includes isosorbide. This can prolong
the time the drug works in your system, and so needs only to be taken
once daily (Elantan LA®, Imdur®,) or twice daily (Elantan®). You need to
take these every day because their purpose is to prevent angina, rather
than treat an actual attack. You can use them in combination with the
spray or Suscard Buccal®, if your doctor feels you need both.

These tablets may also give you a headache at first, but this usually
disappears after a few days to weeks.

d) Patches, for example, Deponit®, Transiderm®.

These are also used to prevent angina. When using them, it is important
to take the patch off for several (usually eight) hours in each 24-hour
period (for example, you would put one on at 7am, and take off at 11pm).
This is because your body needs hours when the nitrate levels are lower
to make sure the drug continues to work effectively over time. There is
still enough of the drug in your bloodstream to control your symptoms
even when you are not wearing the patch. The patch is usually taken off
during the time when you are less likely to get angina. For most people
this is night-time, although your doctor may decide another time is more
suitable for you.

How and when should I take them?

Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist.

Side effects
Nitrates can cause headache but these usually get better as you continue to
take the medication. If you experience any side effects, particularly if you
have recently started on the medicine or your dose has increased you
should speak to your doctor or pharmacist. The patient information leaflet
in the medicine packet contains more information on side effects.

27
 Potassium Channel Openers

What do they do?

Potassium channel openers allow more oxygen-rich blood to reach the
heart muscle and reduce the workload on the heart. They help to prevent
angina by opening blood vessels.
Examples
Nicorandil (Ikorel®) is the only drug in this family.

How and when should I take them?

You usually take nicorandil twice a day. Follow the instructions on the
pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the instructions, ask your pharmacist.
Side effects
You may get a headache when you first start taking this medicine or if your
dose has just been increased. Other side effects include, flushing, dizziness,
feeling sick and indigestion.

If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have recently started on
the medicine or your dose has increased you should speak to your doctor or
pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine packet contains
more information on side effects.

28
 Anticoagulants

What do they do?

Anticoagulants reduce the risk of blood clotting. They work in a different
way to aspirin or clopidogrel and may sometimes be used in combination
with these antiplatelet medicines. They are used for many conditions such
as atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) or for people who have had a heart
valve replaced.
Examples
Warfarin (Warfant®, Warfarin Teva®)

How and when should I take them?

Follow the instructions on the pharmacy label. If you are not sure of the
instructions, ask your pharmacist. The dose of warfarin will depend on a
blood test result known as the INR (International Normalised Ratio). This
result tells us how ‘thin’ your blood is. You will need regular blood tests to
keep your result within your ideal or ‘target INR’ range. Make sure your clinic
gives you a warfarin booklet as well, as this has important instructions for
people taking warfarin.
Side effects
People taking warfarin should be aware of any bleeding which goes on for
longer than normal, for example, nosebleeds, bleeding gums, bruising or
red or dark bowel movements / urine. This may be a sign that your dose is
too high, and so it is important to contact your GP or warfarin clinic as soon
as possible.

If you experience any side effects, particularly if you have recently started on
the medicine or your dose has increased you should speak to your doctor or
pharmacist. The patient information leaflet in the medicine packet contains
more information on side effects.

29
Anything else I need to know?
If you are taking anticoagulants, you should never take any other medicines,
including supplements or herbal preparations, without first checking with
your doctor or pharmacist.

It is also important to avoid drinking cranberry juice.

Try to keep your diet regular. You can drink alcohol if you want to, but no
more than two units a day. If in doubt discuss this with a nurse or doctor.

Check with your doctor before having any dental work, scopes or minor
surgery.

Dabigatran (Pradaxa®)

More people are being offered dabigatran as an alternative to warfarin to

treat atrial fibrillation. It is more expensive but does not need regular INR
checks. Its disadvantage is it does not have an antidote. As with
warfarin, people taking dabigatran should contact their
doctor if they have any bleeding which goes on for
longer than normal. Also similar to warfarin, don’t
take any other medicines, including supplements
and herbal preparations without first checking
with your doctor or pharmacist.

30
 More Information
Contact list

Fill in the table below with important names and contact numbers, for
example, your GP, pharmacist and hospital.

Name Contact phone Note

number

31
Please make a donation today
The Irish Heart Foundation is Ireland’s national charity dedicated to the reduction of
death and disability from heart disease and stroke. Over 90% of our funding comes
from public and business donations. We depend on your goodwill and generosity to
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If you found this booklet useful, please help our charity to continue to
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You can make your donation today:

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Online: www.irishheart.ie
By phone: 01 6685001

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32
 SEPA Direct Debit Mandate

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from the Irish Heart Foundation.
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Please complete all the fields below marked*

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Registered Charity Number: CHY 5507
33 Source Code: APP00248
More information
Useful websites:
www.irishheart.ie
www.stroke.ie
www.iacr.info
www.hse.ie
www.bhf.org.uk
www.heart.org

Other Irish Heart Foundation publications:

Step by step through stroke
Step by step through heart surgery
Step by step through heart attack
Step by step through inherited heart disease
Step by step through heart failure
Step by step through angina
AF and you, information for people living with atrial fibrillation
Step by step through cardiac catheterization and angioplasty
Manage your stress
All about your heart and stroke
Time to cut down on salt
Manage your blood pressure
A healthy cholesterol
Healthy eating
Be active
Quit smoking
Lose weight
Heart and Stroke Helpline:
Locall 1890 432 787
Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm
www.irishheart.ie
 www.iacr.info

Irish Heart Foundation,

50 Ringsend Road,
Dublin 4

T: +353 1 668 5001

F: +353 1 668 5896
Email: info@irishheart.ie

Heart and Stroke Helpline:

Locall 1890 432 787
Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm

Web:
www.irishheart.ie
www.stroke.ie

Registered Charity The information provided in this

Number CHY 5507 booklet was correct and accurate
at the time of publication to the
best of the Irish Heart
Foundation’s knowledge.
July 2011