David Pogue, R.Ph.,
Cardiovascular Pharmacist

“You may have high blood pressure
and not know it.”

See your doctor

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is called the silent killer because many people don't even know they have this condition. That's why it's important to have your doctor check your blood pressure.

Learn your numbers

Blood pressure is measured by two sets of numbers: the systolic (or top number) and the diastolic (or bottom number). Chances are that your doctor will want you to have a systolic measurement under 130 and a diastolic measurement under 80. Depending on your health, your doctor may have lower numbers in mind. If your doctor feels that your blood pressure is too high, you might get a prescription for a blood pressure-lowering medication. Remember, lowering your blood pressure helps reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke.

Take your medication

There's a wide variety of medications that effectively lower blood pressure. They are generally divided into five classes: diuretics or water pills, ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-receptor blockers or ARBs, and beta-blockers. Each class of medication works in a different way, and each has different side effects. Your doctor will determine which medication—or combination of medications—you should take. In addition, your doctor should recheck your blood pressure to make sure your medication is working.

Do you also have high cholesterol?

Many patients with hypertension also have high cholesterol, which may also increase your risk of heart attack or stroke. So have your doctor perform a blood test to check your cholesterol levels. And keep in mind that some blood pressure and cholesterol medications can cause problems when taken together. If Medco manages your prescription program benefit and we notice a safety issue with your medications, we can check the other drugs that have been dispensed to you and consult with your doctor, if necessary. And remember: See your doctor, learn your numbers, and take your medication.

With Medco, members could **save an average of $240* a year** on prescriptions.

Start now!†

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Average annual savings calculations are projected from a study concluded in January 2009 of over 9 million lowest online non-Medicare savings opportunities. Your actual savings may not reach the projected average. Savings amounts may vary based on drug prices, prescription programs, including deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses, in effect at the time of the savings calculation, applicable law and pharmacist's judgment. Medication costs outside of your prescription program, and sales tax, where applicable, are not included. In most cases, the alternatives that are shown are preferred by your prescription program. Some or all of the alternatives may not be appropriate for you and all will require your doctor's approval. Not all have been reviewed by Medco's independent Pharmacy and Therapeutics committee. Medco can earn rebates on some drugs which may be shared with plan sponsors. No prescription change is made without a doctor's authorization.

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