Heart Failure: Taking Medicines Properly

Loading...

Cholesterol Med Risks

FDA adds new safety warnings to statins, commonly used to lower cholesterol. What are the risks for you?


Statin Side Effects
 
 
 
 

Actionsets help people take an active role in managing a health condition.  Heart Failure: Taking Medicines Properly

Introduction

Medicines do not cure heart failure. But they can make you feel better, help your heart work better, and help you live longer.

Key points

  • Take a list of your medicines or bring your medicines with you when you visit your doctor. Make sure to include any nonprescription medicines and natural supplements that you take. Talk about any side effects you are having or need to watch for.
  • Make your medicine schedule as simple as possible. Plan times to take your medicines when you are doing other things, like eating a meal or getting ready for bed. This will make it easier for you to remember to take your medicines.
  • Talk with your doctor if you are having problems with when to take your medicine. Your doctor may be able to change your medicines or the times you take them.
  • Talk with your doctor if you have any changes in your health that might affect your heart failure, such as weight gain, side effects of medicines, or another health problem.
  • Use tools like daily or weekly pill boxes to make taking your medicines simpler.

Return to topic:

By: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Theresa O'Young, PharmD - Clinical Pharmacy
Last Revised: October 13, 2010

healthwise logo © 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
My Doctors

More Doctors

Best Heatlh Toolkit
Related Conditions for Heart Failure
Symptoms & Drugs
Symptoms
Drugs

Related medications and natural products.

More Drugs A-Z
Loading...

High Blood Pressure?

high-blood-pressure_tout_75x90

High blood pressure—also known as hypertension—is a major health risk. Find out how to lower your blood pressure.

Control Your Blood Pressure

 
 
 
 
Loading...
Loading...