Every year, American Heart Month (February) reminds us that cardiovascular disease is a prevalent health condition, and the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Pharmacists are key players in the fight against heart disease, as patient-centered pharmacy care provides a connective tissue across the healthcare landscape to support plan members’ heart health.
Pharmacists bring unique insights to an individual's experience through both clinical expertise and personal interactions that can help close care gaps. As we take a closer look at pharmacy and heart health, here are some of the more commonly prescribed medications for heart patients that pharmacists help manage:
Anticoagulants (E.g. Apixaban, Rivaroxaban): Known as "blood thinners," these medications help in preventing blood clots from forming in blood vessels, lowering the risk of strokes or heart attacks. These medications can increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, pharmacists may advise patients to monitor for signs of excessive bleeding, such as prolonged nosebleeds or unusual bruising.
ACE inhibitors (E.g. Benazepril, Captopril): Mainly used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, these medications lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels and reducing the heart's workload. These medications can cause a persistent, dry cough for some people, or (rarely) swelling in the mouth or throat. Pharmacists can educate patients on how to identify these symptoms and when to seek medical attention.
Beta Blockers (E.g. Atenolol, Metoprolol): Primarily used to slow the heart rate and lower blood pressure, these help the heart beat more slowly and with less force. These medications can cause fatigue, cold hands or feet, and, in some cases, can worsen asthma symptoms. A pharmacist can advise on monitoring these side effects and discuss any concerns with the healthcare provider.
Digoxin (E.g. Lanoxin): This medication increases the force of the heart's contractions and slows a fast heart rate. It is beneficial in treating heart failure and irregular heartbeats. Also, it addresses certain types of irregular heartbeats, particularly atrial fibrillation. Digoxin plays a critical role in relieving symptoms when there is a poor response to other standard treatments, so pharmacists may answer questions on effectiveness, safety and more.
Diuretics (E.g. Acetazolamide, Amiloride): Also known as "water pills," these medications help the body rid itself of excess fluids and sodium, reducing the heart's workload and helping to lower blood pressure. These can cause increased urination, which may lead to dehydration, and could also affect potassium levels. Pharmacists can educate patients on signs of dehydration and the importance of regular blood tests to monitor electrolyte levels.
Statins (E.g. Atorvastatin, Rosuvastatin): Statins work by reducing the level of LDL ("bad") cholesterol in the body, as high LDL cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease. Statins may be used when lifestyle changes like diet and exercise are not enough to reduce cholesterol levels. It's important to monitor the use of statins due to potential side effects such as muscle pain and liver damage.
For all these medications, pharmacists can consult on the potential side effects of the prescribed therapy and ways to manage them.
Connected pharmacy care that matters
Pharmacy care for heart health not only helps ensure medications are appropriately prescribed and monitored, it also supports patient education for plan members – from the critical need to adhere to their treatment plans, to lifestyle changes that may enhance heart health. In cases where multiple medications are prescribed, pharmacists can provide guidance on potential interactions to help reduce related complications or health events.
Overall, when it comes to managing heart health, pharmacy care doesn't merely start and end at dispensing medications. It is an essential part of the health care journey, and pharmacists can provide a compass to help guide us along the way.
By embracing a whole health approach and helping members make the most of their pharmacy benefit, we all can join the fight against heart disease – not only during American Heart Month, but throughout the year. Here's to heart health for all!
Information contained in this article was compiled from publicly available sources at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (cdc.gov), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) (fda.gov), the American Heart Association (heart.org), and Drug Topics (drugtopics.com).
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