A heart-healthy lifestyle combined with medication to treat high blood pressure and cholesterol helps lower heart disease risk. By making healthy choices daily, you reduce the chances of having a heart attack or other major health events. Several ways to improve your heart health include:

• Being physically active
• Drinking alcohol in moderation
• Eating healthy
• Getting enough sleep
• Knowing your family’s health history
• Managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Managing stress
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Taking medications as directed
• Quitting smoking

Heart Medications

Heart medications prescribed by your doctor can improve heart function and add years to your life. They support positive heart health and treat issues such as high blood pressure and cholesterol imbalance that you may have. Before taking any medications, make sure you understand what you are taking, the dosage, and the possible side effects. Being informed about your medication helps you to have control over its effectiveness.

Ask your pharmacist questions about your medications. Carmichael’s Retail Pharmacy has knowledgeable pharmacists and highly trained staff who can address the myths associated with taking heart medications. According to the American Heart Association, these are the common myths about taking medication:

Myth #1. You do not need to take your medication since you feel OK.

The decision to abruptly stop taking your medication is dangerous because it could lead to a heart-related event such as a heart attack or stroke.

Myth #2. You can take vitamins and supplements without telling your doctor about them.

Vitamins and supplements may reduce the effectiveness of your heart medication. For example, taking too much vitamin K can interfere with prescribed blood thinners and increase the risk of blood clotting.

Myth #3. Natural supplements are better than prescription medication.

Talk with your doctor before taking natural supplements because they may interact with your prescribed medication. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve supplements because it does not have the authority to review them for safety and effectiveness.

Myth #4. Generic brand medications do not work.

It is possible to decrease cardiovascular risk, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels with generics. Talk to your doctor about the medications available.

Myth #5. It is OK to take over-the-counter cold and headache medication.

Stimulants in many over-the-counter cold medications and certain pain relievers or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may interfere with blood pressure medication. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking these medications.

Compounded Heart Medications are Available

Compounded heart medications can be an alternative if you have allergies to certain ingredients. Your pharmacist at Carmichael’s Compounding Pharmacy can ensure your medicine does not include those ingredients. The pharmacy provides compounded medications in a variety of dosages and concentrations and in forms that are easy for you to take.

Carmichael’s Compounding Pharmacy will prepare medicines customized to meet your individual needs, based on your prescription. Contact a representative to get started and build your relationship with your local compounding pharmacy that can help you improve your heart health.