Medications play an important part in treating heart disease. The medications your physician      prescribes for you may help your heart pump better, reduce your symptoms and decrease the      limitations on your lifestyle. One of the most common reasons people are readmitted to the hospital      with heart disease is because they have not taken their medications properly. It is important to follow      the instructions you are given with your prescriptions.

 Do's and Don'ts About Medication Know the names and dosages of your medications. Always keep      a current list of the medications you are taking with you. Bring this list with you when you go to the      doctor's office, hospital, or clinic. Have the nurse update your list every time changes are made. This      information will be helpful when you call the doctor with a problem or another doctor treats you in an      emergency.

 Know why you are taking these medications, how to take them, and how they work.

 If you have any questions about your medications - ASK. Don't change, skip or add a dose without      checking with your doctor. Refill your medication BEFORE it runs out.

 Know the common side effects of your medications. Often they are minor and can be eliminated by      changing medications or the dosage. Let your doctor know if anything unusual happens. Stop taking      the medication and call your doctor immediately if you feel dizzy, faint, lightheaded, have difficulty      breathing or develop a rash. If you are unable to get your doctor and the symptoms get worse, go to      the emergency room.

 Develop a routine to help you remember when to take your medication. Plan to take your medication      around other regular activities in your life such as brushing your teeth, with meals, when you go to      sleep, get up or watch the evening news.

 Let your doctor know if you take over-the-counter medications such as antacids, cold remedies or      aspirin because they may interact with your prescription medications.

 Keep your medication in a dry place at room temperature.

 Don't try to save money by "stretching out" your medications. Talk to your doctor about this problem.      Shop around for the lowest price, use generic brands if possible. Some people save by shopping      through the mail.

 Remember, the medications your doctor prescribes are important in treating your heart disease. It's      very important to take the medications as ordered and to communicate to your doctor any reason why      you are not able to take them as directed.