If you have a moderate or high risk of heart disease — for instance, if you have high blood pressure or a family history of heart disease along with LDL ("bad cholesterol") above 130 mg/dL — lifestyle modifications may not be enough to ensure cardiac health. While a weight-healthy lifestyle (that includes exercise) — like the doctor-designed South Beach Diet program — should always be part of a comprehensive heart-healthy plan, your doctor may also recommend medication to lower your risk of heart disease.

Here's a look at some commonly prescribed medications and supplements that reduce your risk of heart disease:

• Statin drugs: In the late 1980s, the class of cholesterol-lowering drugs known as statins (medications such as Mevacor, Pravachol, Lescol, Zocor, and Lipitor) became available. Statins cut LDL cholesterol quite easily and dramatically with few side effects. Many clinical trials have shown that statins may help prevent heart attacks and strokes.
• Aspirin: Taking a low-dose aspirin every day thins the blood slightly and makes the blood less sticky and, thus, less likely to form clots that typically precipitate heart attacks and strokes. Despite the fact that aspirin is sold over the counter and is inexpensive, some people forget that aspirin can be an important part of a heart-healthy regimen. Be advised that aspirin is not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders, stomach ulcers, and liver and kidney disease. Also note that aspirin affects men and women differently. Consult your doctor about whether the benefits of daily aspirin therapy outweigh the risks.
• Fish-oil supplement: Just as Dr. Agatston advises people to eat fish high in beneficial omega-3 oils (such as salmon and sardines), he suggests 1,000 to 2,000 milligrams of fish-oil supplements in capsule form daily. They lower triglycerides (fats that circulate in the blood) and, like aspirin, reduce the likelihood of blood clots. Also, omega 3s have been found to prevent sudden death due to cardiac arrhythmia — the sudden, potentially fatal stoppage of the normal heartbeat.
• Nicotinic acid: This B vitamin, also known as niacin, is available over the counter as a dietary supplement, though Dr. Agatston recommends higher doses, which are available by prescription only. It is the most effective agent for increasing HDL ("good" cholesterol), and it also lowers LDL as well as triglycerides. Nicotinic acid is associated with some bothersome side effects, particularly flushing of the face and dizziness, as well as some rare side effects, so careful monitoring is important.

And a look at what doesn't lower your risk:

• Vitamin E: For years there's been talk about how vitamin E supplements, an antioxidant, may help lower the risk of heart disease and prevent heart attacks. Recently, though, multiple studies have failed to support this theory. Dr. Agatston's advice is to boost your body's supply of vitamin E (still an essential nutrient) and other antioxidants by eating whole foods, like fruits, vegetables, and nuts, which are rich sources of this nutrient.

Even when medications are deemed necessary, the best approach to heart health combines drug therapy with a healthy meal plan and physical activity. Your doctor will help you determine which medications and supplements are right for you.

For more information on these and other medications; diagnostic tests that can detect heart disease in its early, treatable stages; and advice on a heart-healthy diet and exercise routine, order your copy of Dr. Agatston's bestselling book, The South Beach Heart Health Revolution, or visit us at SouthBeachDiet.com/Heart.