Medication Category/Purpose

Question 1

ACE Inhibitors &

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers

Answer 1

Used to reduce high blood pressure. Helps to increase the “pumping strength” of the heart muscle

Question 2

Digitalis Medications

Answer 2

Helps to improve the strength and efficiency of the heart. Also helps to slow a heart that is beating too fast and regulate an irregular heart rhythm, such as atrial fibrillation.

Question 3

Beta Blockers

Answer 3

To slow a rapid heartbeat
To prevent and treat the rapid, abnormal heartbeats that may occur after cardiac surgery
To treat angina (it slows the heart rate, reducing the need for oxygen). These medications may lower blood pressure slightly

Question 4

Calcium Channel Blockers

Answer 4

Helps to get rid of extra fluid that may accumulate after surgery or as a result of a heart condition.

Also used to help reduce high blood pressure.

Question 5

Diuretics

Answer 5

Helps to get rid of extra fluid that may accumulate after surgery or as a result of a heart condition.

Also used to help reduce high blood pressure.

Question 6

Potassium

Answer 6

Helps to control heart rhythm. Potassium supplements may be recommended if a patient takes diuretics, which can cause the body to lose potassium

Question 7

Nitrates

Answer 7

Helps prevent or relieve angina(chest pain) attacks by expanding blood vessels and reducing the workload of the heart.

Question 8

Anticoagulants (Blood thinners)

Answer 8

Used to decrease the ability of the blood to form clots.

Often prescribed for patients who have had valve replacement surgery or have an irregular heartbeat.