Medications

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) help relax your veins and arteries to lower your blood pressure, making it easier for your heart to pump. Read about the different types of ARBs, how they work, and their side effects.

ARNIs are a type of medication used to treat heart failure. Currently the only ARNI available in New Zealand is Entresto (valsartan/sacubitril). Learn how Entresto works and about its side effects.

Antiarrhythmics help control irregular heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation (AF), supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) or ventricular tachycardia (VT). Find out how antiarrhythmics work and their side effects.

Anticoagulants medicines (often called 'blood thinners') reduce your risk of blood clots. Read about types of anticoagulants, how they work, and their side effects.

Antiplatelets are medicines that prevent blood clots from forming. Read about the different types of antiplatelets, how they work, and their side effects.

Calcium channel blockers can help treat high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms and chest pain. Read about the types of calcium channel blockers, how they work and their possible side effects.

Glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) spray can relieve symptoms of chest pain (angina). Read about how GTN works and its possible side effects.

Statins lower your risk of heart attack and stroke, by reducing your cholesterol levels. Read about the types of statins, how they work and their side effects.

Beta blockers steady your heart rate and rhythm, lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of you having a heart attack. Read about the types of beta blockers, how they work and their possible side effects.

ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) are medications that lower blood pressure and lessen the workload of your heart. Read about the different types of ACE inhibitors, how they work, and their side effects.

Long-acting nitrates help prevent angina (chest pain). Read about the types of long-acting nitrates, how they work and their possible side effects.

Diuretics, also known as water tablets, help reduce fluid build-up in your body. Read about the types of diuretics, how they work and their possible side effects.