Final answer:
Cardiovascular medications available over-the-counter include aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. These drugs are in lower OTC doses than their prescription versions. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using these medications.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering what cardiovascular (CV) prescriptions are available over-the-counter (OTC), it's important to note that some medications that were once prescription-only have been determined safe enough for OTC use. One common OTC drug is aspirin, known for its blood-thinning properties and use in preventing heart attacks and strokes. Other non-selective NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil and Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), which are available in lower doses than their prescription counterparts.
While phenylpropanolamine (PPA) is no longer sold OTC in the United States due to an increased risk of stroke, especially in younger women, it may be available in some European countries either OTC or by prescription. According to the FDA, there are about 800 approved ingredients that form more than 100,000 OTC drug products. Medications such as cough and cold remedies are also available OTC, though they do not fall under the category of CV medications.
It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any new medication, even if it is available over the counter, to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health needs.