How to manage heart failure medications

If you're living with heart failure, it's imperative you manage your medications effectively.

Following the treatment plan set forth by you and your health care providers can help you improve your quality of life

and help you live longer.

While these medications cannot cure heart failure, they can help slow its progression and manage

your symptoms. Know what medications you're taking and why you're taking them. Ask your health care providers if you have any questions.

You should know the doses you need to take for each medication and how frequently you should be taking them,

whether the medication should be taken with or without food, anything you should avoid after taking it,

what you should do in case you miss a dose, any signs or symptoms you should be aware of that indicate the medication is working

or not. It can be helpful to create a list of your medications so that you can write these dosing instructions down.

Make sure you take these medications exactly as they are prescribed, even if you start feeling better.

Never stop taking your heart failure medications without talking to your health care provider first and confirming it's OK.

If you feel like your medication is not working or your symptoms are worsening, contact your health care

provider. You should also make sure your providers are aware of everything you are taking, including over-the-counter medications

and supplements, as some of these may negatively affect your heart failure. Sometimes, it can be easy to forget to take your medications,

especially if you need to take several. You should take your medication at the same time each day

to help establish a routine. You might also set reminders in your phone or leave notes on your fridge or use a divided pill

container to help you remember. You should also keep track of how much medicine you have on hand and be sure that your regimen won't

be interrupted. Your health care provider will be the best source of information for your unique situation.