Medication

Medicine pillsIf you are living with heart failure, you are likely taking multiple medications to treat it. It is extremely important that you take your medications exactly as prescribed to help your heart function properly. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your medication, please contact your doctor, pharmacist, or Hopeful Heart nurse.

How can I remember to take my medication?

  • Ask your doctor if your medications can be adjusted so if possible, all are taken once or, at most, twice per day.
  • Put your medications in a pill box. You can find these for sale at most pharmacies. You can look here for pill boxes.
  • Get into a routine and take your medication at the same time every day. For example, take them in the morning or before bedtime, when you are doing another routine activity, such as brushing your teeth.
  • Set a daily alarm on your phone or alarm clock.
  • Ask a family member or friend to remind you to take your medications every day.
  • Put a Post-It on your bathroom mirror, medicine cabinet, or refrigerator to remind you to take your medication.
  • Print out a medication chart like this one and keep it on your refrigerator or medicine cabinet.
  • Use an app on your smartphone to remind you to take your medication, such as iMedicationsMedCoach, or RxmindMe PrescriptionCheck out even more medication reminder apps by clicking here.
  • Ask your Hopeful Heart nurse for additional suggestions to help you remember to take your medication daily.

My medications are too expensive. Are there any less expensive options?

How do these medications work?

Find an overview of the types of medications that are commonly prescribed for people who are experiencing heart failure by visiting the American Heart Association. You can also ask your doctor, pharmacist, or Hopeful Heart nurse for additional information.