| Taking too much or too little medication can be harmful to your heart. Follow all of your doctor's instructions. Even if you start to feel better, don't stop taking your medications or change your dosage unless instructed to do so by your doctor. The tips below can help. Having a routine can help you remember when to take your medications. Try these tips: - Get a pillbox marked with the days of the week. Fill the pillbox at the beginning of each week. Then simply open that day's section and take your pills each time.
- Take your pills at the same times each day. If you take them when you do something else, it will help you remember. For example, take pills when you brush your teeth or eat a meal. Ask your doctor or pharmacist which medications can be taken with meals.
For your medications to work, you must take them exactly as directed. These tips will help: - Order more medication when you still have a two-week supply to avoid running out.
- Carry your medications and extra prescriptions when you travel.
- Have a list of all the medications you take. Show this to any doctor or dentist who treats you. Also show it to your pharmacist before you buy any prescription or over-the-counter medication. Your pharmacist can tell you which medications can cause problems when taken together. Use Western Baptist's Universal Medication Form to keep track of your medicines.
Some heart medications cause side effects. These can include nausea, dry cough, dizziness, muscle cramps or changes in your heart rhythm. To know what to expect, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can suggest ways to lessen any side effects you have. To learn more about cardiac services at Western Baptist Hospital, including the new Baptist Heart Center, phone Baptist Health Line at (270) 575-2918. If you are experiencing chest pain, speak to one of our cardiac nurses at the Chest Pain Hotline, 1-800-575-1911. For a schedule of upcoming Understanding Heart Failure classes, click here. | 
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