Natural alternatives to Entresto

In this article:

• Are there natural alternatives to Entresto?
• Top 5 natural alternatives to Entresto
• Compare natural Entresto alternatives
• Other potential natural medicines to support heart health
• Lifestyle considerations for heart health
• Precautions before using a natural Entresto alternative

In this article

• Are there natural alternatives to Entresto?
• Top 5 natural alternatives to Entresto
• Compare natural Entresto alternatives
• Other potential natural medicines to support heart health
• Lifestyle considerations for heart health
• Precautions before using a natural Entresto alternative

When it comes to managing heart failure, Entresto (sacubitril/valsartan) has become a widely prescribed drug by many healthcare providers. It combines a neprilysin inhibitor and an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), which work together to reduce strain on the heart. As a result, Entresto may help reduce heart failure symptoms like shortness of breath and edema while preventing hospitalization.

Although Entresto is effective, many people might look for natural alternatives, such as supplements and lifestyle changes. This could be due to Entresto’s side effects or cost, or just personal preference. Some people might also be looking for natural remedies for congestive heart failure to complement their prescription drug treatments. Read on to learn more about potential natural options, such as coenzyme Q10, hawthorn, and vitamin B1.

Are there natural alternatives to Entresto?

Various supplements and herbal medicines are available that have been reported to support heart health, especially in those with heart failure. Some studies suggest these natural products might be beneficial, but there is no clear consensus on how safe or effective they really are. In addition, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not specifically approve these supplements as treatments for heart failure.

Natural supplements like L-carnitine and hawthorn are believed to help with circulation and support overall heart health. Another option is coenzyme Q10, which may help provide energy to the heart, among other benefits.

Vitamins and minerals are also important for keeping the heart healthy. Vitamin D and B vitamins, as well as minerals like magnesium, have been found to be involved in the functioning of the heart and overall health. In addition to keeping the heart working as it should, these nutrients also support other bodily functions, such as helping muscles work properly and keeping blood pressure in check.

Top 5 natural alternatives to Entresto

The following are some of the most commonly recommended alternatives to Entresto.

1. Coenzyme Q10 

Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is an antioxidant naturally produced by the body and found in many foods. It’s key for energy production in cells, including heart muscles. Studies have shown that people with chronic heart failure may have lower levels of CoQ10. One study looked at 33 clinical trials to see how supplementation with coQ10 affects heart failure. The findings showed that coenzyme Q10 may boost heart function, improve symptoms, and lower death rates and hospital visits without serious side effects. 

2. L-carnitine

L-carnitine is an amino acid derivative that helps the body produce energy. It plays a role in transporting fatty acids to the heart muscle, which may help provide the energy the heart needs to pump blood. Some clinical trials indicate that L-carnitine may benefit people with certain types of heart failure by improving exercise performance and heart function.

3. Magnesium

Inadequate magnesium levels may be linked to heart-related issues, including heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) and heart failure. Magnesium is a vital mineral that is involved in controlling heart rate and maintaining healthy blood vessels. A study with 21 heart failure patients showed that magnesium supplements help decrease the severity of irregular heartbeats and lower blood pressure.

4. Thiamine

Supplementing with vitamin B12, also known as thiamine, could help improve heart function and reduce symptoms of heart failure—especially for people who may be taking diuretics, who might experience lower levels of thiamine. A study reviewed several trials to see how thiamine affects heart function in patients with systolic heart failure. The results showed that thiamine supplementation may help the heart pump more effectively than a placebo, measured by left ventricular ejection fraction.

5. Hawthorn

Studies have shown that hawthorn may be beneficial in herbal medicine, especially for congestive heart failure. Researchers have found that among 588 patients taking a hawthorn extract along with standard medications, symptoms were significantly improved compared to 364 patients who only received standard treatments. However, more studies are needed to explore its use for heart failure.

*These uses have not been approved by the FDA.

Other potential natural medicines to support heart health

Other natural supplements and vitamins may be available to help promote heart health. These might include the following:

• Omega-3 fatty acids 
• Berberine
• D-ribose
• Vitamin D
• Creatine
• Arginine
• Turmeric
• Pomegranate

These natural supplements may help support heart health in several ways. Certain supplements may help promote better blood flow, reduce inflammation, or maintain healthy cholesterol levels. 

When combined with a nutritious diet and regular exercise, these natural options may be a helpful part of taking care of your heart. However, it’s always important to consult a healthcare provider before trying a natural medicine for heart failure, especially if you’re taking other heart failure medications. 

Lifestyle considerations for heart health

Improving heart health often involves making lifestyle changes. Simple steps can make a difference in managing high blood pressure (hypertension) and improving how well your heart works. By developing healthier habits, you can support your heart health and feel better overall.

Follow a heart-healthy diet

Eating a balanced diet can have positive effects on heart health. Choose foods low in saturated fats, cholesterol, and trans fats. You may want to include foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, as well as foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon. Reducing sodium intake can also help control blood pressure. Too much salt may lead to hypertension and increase the risk of heart disease. 

Stick to regular exercise

Regular exercise is important for keeping your heart healthy. Try for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, like brisk walking or cycling, on most days of the week. Strength training exercises, such as lifting weights, can also be done a couple of times each week. Staying active helps manage weight, lowers blood pressure, and improves overall well-being.

Manage stress

High stress levels can raise blood pressure and lead to unhealthy habits like overeating or smoking. Try relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve your quality of life. Taking time for hobbies and spending time with loved ones can also improve your mood and support a healthier heart.

Quit smoking and limit alcohol use

Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease, while excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. Both smoking and heavy drinking may also increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. If you smoke, seek support to quit, and try to keep alcohol intake to moderate levels—up to one drink per day for women and two drinks for men.

Avoid using certain over-the-counter medications

Be cautious with certain over-the-counter medications, as they can affect heart health. Some pain relievers and cold medications may contain ingredients like pseudoephedrine or phenylephrine that may raise blood pressure or cause other issues. Always read labels carefully and consult a healthcare provider if you’re unsure about a medication’s effects.

Watch your weight

Keeping an eye on your weight is important for heart health. Significant weight gain may increase the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Aim to keep a healthy weight with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Precautions before using a natural Entresto alternative

Before considering natural treatment options, there are a few important precautions to keep in mind. Not all natural supplements are safe for everyone, and a cardiologist or other healthcare provider can help you understand the risks and benefits. 

You may want to consider potential drug interactions with other prescription drugs, which may lead to increased side effects. For example, hawthorn may interact with digoxin, beta blockers like Coreg (carvedilol) and Tenormin (atenolol), and drugs for male sexual dysfunction like Viagra (sildenafil). It’s important to discuss all current medications with a healthcare professional before trying a new supplement. 

Even natural products can cause side effects, such as allergic reactions or digestive issues. Unlike brand-name prescription drugs, many natural alternatives are not regulated by the FDA, which means their safety and effectiveness might not be well-studied. 

Always seek medical advice before starting any new supplement, especially if you have ongoing health concerns. You might also want to discuss other prescription alternatives to Entresto that may help you manage your condition.