My medicines
Information on the treatments available for heart failure is provided in the Heart failure medicines section. Below is a list of questions you may want to ask your doctor or nurse to help you manage your medicines as efficiently as possible.
Can my medicine(s) cause any side effects?
Discussing the side effects of your medicine(s) with your doctor or nurse will ensure you know what to expect from taking the medicine, and allow you to prepare yourself for any unwanted side effects. For example, if dizziness is a side effect of your medicine, they may advise you to stand or get out of bed slowly.
How many pills should I take and when?
This will help you to create your own personal medicine chart to keep a track of when and how often to take your medicines.
What if I miss a pill?
Your doctor will advise you what to do if you miss one or more doses of your medicine. For most heart failure medicines to work optimally you need to take the correct dose at the correct time. By taking a pill late, or two at the same time you may be increasing the amount of medicine in your body to a level which might lead to side effects. However if you forget a diuretic, you can usually take it later in the day without problems.
How often do I need to get a new prescription?
Your medicine(s) will be prescribed for a period of time and you will be informed how to request a new prescription – you may need to make another appointment or you may be able to collect it from your clinic or pharmacy. With most heart failure medicines it is important that you take them every day, therefore it is important to plan ahead to make sure you don’t run out – remember holidays or planned travel.
