Medicines can help prevent or treat heart conditions, like high blood pressure, angina, heart attack and heart failure.
They’re also used to keep symptoms under control. Some people take medicine for a short time and others may need to take it for longer.
On this page
Types of medicine for heart conditions
There are different medicines you may be given for different things. You may be given more than one type of medicine depending on your condition.
Medicines you may have:
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cholesterol-lowering medicines, like statins
You can find more detailed information on the NHS website or the electronic medicines compendium (emc) website. You can also find more information in the leaflet that comes with your medicine.
Questions to ask about your medicine
It’s important to know what you’re taking, why you are taking it, and how it will affect you. When you’re given a new prescription, speak to your doctor about:
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what is the medicine they’re prescribing you
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what are the benefits and risks
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how to take it
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when to take it
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how long you need to take it for
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possible side effects and what to do if you notice any
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taking other medicine at the same time, like over-the-counter medicines or supplements.
If you have any questions about a medicine you’re taking, speak to your doctor, nurse specialist or a pharmacist.
When is the best time to take your medicine?
Pharmacist Antania Tang untangles this complicated question on the 'best time' to take medicines like statins, blood pressure tablets and clopidogrel.
Managing side effects
All medicines can cause side effects. Many people have no side effects, however for some people they can have a big impact on their daily life.
Side effects can be caused by your medicine but could also be caused by other things such as your condition, stress, tiredness or a change in your lifestyle.
If you’ve started taking a new medicine, it’s worth bearing in mind that symptoms may improve over time or even disappear.
If you’re struggling with side effects, it’s important not to stop taking your medicine before speaking to a healthcare professional.
Speak to your doctor, nurse specialist or pharmacist. They can:
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talk about and help you manage side effects
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change the dose or type of medicine if appropriate
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suggest an alternative treatment.
The Yellow Card Scheme collects information about side effects. You can register with the scheme and report any side effects you have.
Can I stop taking my medicine if I feel better?
It can be difficult to understand why you need to continue taking medicine once you feel better, or your cholesterol and blood pressure are lower. It may feel like the medicine has done its job.
However, if you stop taking the medicine your condition may get worse. This is why it’s important to keep taking your medicine even if you feel well.
Many people find getting into a daily routine, setting reminders on your phone for when to take your medicines or speaking to a pharmacist or doctor can help to make it easier.
Where to get help with medicine
If you’re struggling with side effects or have questions about your medicine, speak to your doctor, nurse or a pharmacist. You can find more information in the leaflet that comes with your medicine.
For support you can also speak to:
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our cardiac nurses by calling our Heart Helpline
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other people going through a similar experience in our online community.
Over-the-counter medicine, herbal medicines and supplements
Check with your doctor before taking any over-the-counter medicine, herbal medicines and supplements.
St John’s Wort can interact with some heart condition medicines and make them less effective.
If you need help, talk to your GP or pharmacist. You can also talk to one of our cardiac nurses by calling the Heart Helpline.
Free prescriptions
Prescriptions are free in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
In England they’re free for people in England who are:
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under 16 years old
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16 to 18 years old and in full-time education
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60 years old and older
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pregnant
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have certain health conditions, like diabetes that cannot be controlled with diet.
Find out if you can get free prescriptions in England. Read more on getting help with prescription costs.
Holidays and travel
It’s normal to worry about taking medicine, especially if you’re taking it for a long time. You might have questions about how to prepare when you go on holiday.
Find out more about travelling with medicine.
You can trust our health information
Next review due: May 2027