Managing breathlessness with HCM often comes down to finding the right medication — and what works best can vary from person to person. Here are the most commonly used options:
- Beta-blockers — Slow the heart rate and help reduce chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and palpitations. Often the first medication tried
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Managing breathlessness with HCM often comes down to finding the right medication — and what works best can vary from person to person. Here are the most commonly used options:
- Beta-blockers — Slow the heart rate and help reduce chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and palpitations. Often the first medication tried.
- Calcium channel blockers — Help the heart relax between beats and control rhythm. Often recommended if beta-blockers aren't effective or cause side effects.
- Cardiac myosin inhibitors (e.g., mavacamten/Camzyos, aficamten/Myqorzo) — A newer class of drugs that help the thickened heart muscle relax and allow blood to flow more easily. FDA-approved specifically for obstructive HCM.
- Sodium channel blockers — Can help manage irregular heartbeats that contribute to breathlessness.
- Low-dose diuretics (water pills) — May help relieve shortness of breath when used alongside other medications. It's worth noting that the "best" medication really depends on the specific type of HCM, symptoms, and overall heart function. A cardiologist — ideally one experienced with HCM — is the best person to guide that decision.
If breathlessness is new, worsening, or lasts more than a few minutes, it's important to reach out to a care team right away.
August 22
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