Ace inhibitors
Ace inhibitors (ACEI) are drugs that relax the blood vessels. (See box at left for more description). Some commonly prescribed ACEI include: Capoten (captopril); Vasotec (enalapril); Prinivil/Zestril (lisinopril); Accupril (quinapril); Altace (ramipril); and Monopril (fosinopril).

Beta-blockers
Beta-blockers help lower blood pressure and slow your heart rate. They also block the harmful effects of some of the hormone-like substances that advance heart damage. Over time, Beta-blockers may also improve the pumping action of the heart . (See box at left for more description). Commonly prescribed beta-blockers include Coreg (carvedilol) and Lopressor/Toprol (metoprolol).

Taking an ACEI or beta-blocker will improve heart function over time (months and years). Both drugs, either taken alone or together, have been very useful in improving heart conditions.

Diuretics
Diuretics or "water pills" help rid the body of excess fluid that may collect in your lungs, stomach, or feet and ankles. Less fluid in your body will decrease the workload of your heart.

In addition to excess fluid, diuretics may also deplete your body of potassium. If your potassium level becomes too low,  you may need a prescription for supplements. Potassium is a mineral that, among other things, helps to balance the fluid in your body's cells. It is important for your muscles to work properly. The richest sources of potassium are fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, dried prunes, raisins, baked potatoes (with skin), and tomato juice.

Side effects include dizziness, weakness, gout and muscle cramps (usually due to low potassium). Common diuretics include: Lasix (furosemide); Bumex (bumetanide); Demadex (torsemide); and HCTZ (hydrochlorothiazide).

Spironolactone is a weak "water pill" but helps prevent loss of potassium and scarring of the heart muscle. In a recent research study, spironolactone (Aldactone) helped patients live longer and have fewer hospital admissions. These effects have only been proven in people with more advanced congestive heart failure so far .

Digoxin
Digoxin (lanoxin) is a medication that can help the heart muscle pump blood more effectively. It can also regulate a heartbeat that is too rapid or irregular. However, if your body's Digoxin level gets too high, you may have loss of appetite, nausea, bluish or yellowish vision or rapid, forceful heartbeats. For this reason, your digoxin level will be monitored closely.