When you were diagnosed with heart disease, you probably received a prescription for some new medications. Doing the following things will make it easier to manage your medications:
1. Make sure your doctor knows all the medications you were taking previously so that you can both feel confident you are getting the right prescription.
2. When you receive a prescription, make sure you find out from your doctor:
- The name of the medication
- Why it is being prescribed
- When and how it should be taken
- How long you will need to take it
- What side effects you should expect to have
- What you should do about the side effects
3. When you pick up your prescription, ask your pharmacist to:
- describe the best way to take the medication
- explain what is written on the labels
- provide written information about the medication
4. Carry your medication list with you. Make sure the list includes:
- All of your medications as well as any vitamins or supplements
- Your allergies, immunizations, and pharmacy phone number
5. Review the list regularly with your doctor or pharmacist.
6. If you have trouble remembering to take your medications, try the following:
- Take your medications at regular times each day
- Associate your medications with daily activities like:
- brushing your teeth
- eating meals
- going to bed
- Use a pill organizer with different compartments for different times of the day
- Keep a second bottle in your car or at the office
- If your medications are too complicated, ask your doctor if something simpler can be prescribed
- Put a note on your calendar to remind you to pick up your prescription refills
7. Take the medication as it is prescribed by your doctor:
- If you have concerns about taking medications, discuss them openly and honestly with your doctor
- Discuss troublesome side effects with your doctor-you may be able to take a different kind of medication
8. If you are worried about the cost of your medication, ask your doctor if a less expensive medication can be substituted, or check with the Ontario Trillium Program for possible assistance:
- Phone: 1-800-575-5386