If you’re recovering from a heart attack or cardiovascular surgery such as an ablation, you may work closely with a local pharmacist to manage your heart medications. Patients with cardiovascular disease such as palpitations and SVT or who have had a heart surgery will work with a local cardiologist and/or a local cardiothoracic surgeon as well as their local family physician. A local pharmacist is a healthcare professional who prescribes medication to patients, from birth control pills and arthritis medications to antidepressants. A local pharmacist is also there to educate you on the benefits and side effects of the medication you’re taking, including potential drug interactions. Some of the most common heart medications include anticoagulants, ACE Inhibitors, beta blockers, diuretics and vasodilators. A local pharmacist can also help you understand more about heart-healthy nutrition including sodium reduction and exercise. If you’d like to learn more about how a local pharmacist can be a great addition to your healthcare team, begin by talking to your local family physician, local cardiologist or local cardiothoracic surgeon.