- 1. ECA inhibitors
- 2. Angiotensin receptor blockers
- 3. Diuretics
- 4. Cardiotonics
- 5. Beta-blockers
- Possible side effects
The treatment for heart failure usually consists of the combination of several medications, prescribed by the cardiologist, which will depend on the signs and symptoms that the person presents. In most cases, heart failure medications should be taken for life or for the period of time indicated by the cardiologist.
Some examples of remedies that can be prescribed to treat heart failure are:
1. ECA inhibitors
ACE inhibitor drugs (angiotensin converting enzyme), reduce blood volume and therefore control blood pressure and heart weakness problems, when associated with diuretic drugs, facilitating the work of the heart and reducing the risk of hospitalization and mortality.
Some examples of ACE inhibitors that can be used to treat heart failure are captopril, enalapril, ramipril, benazepril or lisinopril, for example.
2. Angiotensin receptor blockers
Angiotensin receptor blockers can also be used for the treatment of heart failure, when treatment with ACE inhibitors is not considered adequate.
Examples of angiotensin receptor blockers are losartan, candesartan, telmisartan or valsartan, for example.
3. Diuretics
Diuretics help the kidneys to eliminate excess water, reducing blood volume, blood pressure and consequently the pressure exerted on the heart and cardiac preload.
Examples of diuretics are furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, indapamide and spironolactone. Find out more about each of these diuretics.
4. Cardiotonics
Digoxin is a cardiotonic remedy, which helps to increase the strength of the heart's contractions and stabilize the irregular heartbeat. Learn how to use digoxin and what are the most common side effects.
5. Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers work by decreasing the pressure on the heart, reducing the heart rate and increasing the strength of the heart muscle.
Some examples of beta-blockers used in the treatment of heart failure are such as metoprolol, bisoprolol or carvedilol.
In order to obtain the best results, it is important to follow the treatment indicated by the doctor and eat a balanced diet, practice regular exercise and avoid using cigarettes and consuming alcoholic beverages in excess. Check out the benefits of physical activity to improve heart failure.
Also watch the following video to learn how food can be useful to control the symptoms of heart failure, by decreasing the effort of the heart:
Possible side effects
The drugs used to treat heart failure can cause some side effects, such as dizziness, cough, nausea, tiredness and decreased blood pressure.
