Most people have the best of intentions when they leave the doctor’s office with their blood pressure prescription in hand. But many stray off course in the days, weeks, and months that follow. Here’s advice to help you remember your meds.
Do any of these scenarios sound familiar? You fill the blood pressure medication prescription but never take the medicine bottle out of the package. Or you may begin losing interest in the pills, forgetting to take them for days at a time.
Your blood pressure pills are likely not the only medication you take, and it can be difficult to keep all of your drug regimens straight. So, here are some tips to help ensure that you’re taking your blood pressure medications when you should:
- Buy an inexpensive plastic pillbox (available at pharmacies). Look for one with seven compartments that correspond to the days of the week (Sunday through Saturday), as well as times of day (morning, noon, evening), and keep your medication there.
- Leave a Post-It note on the refrigerator or bathroom mirror, or anywhere else you’re likely to see it, as a reminder to take your pills.
- Take your blood pressure pills at the same time each day, and at the same time as an everyday activity (for example, eating breakfast or brushing your teeth). This will help make taking your medication a part of your daily routine.
- Medical pagers and electronic pillboxes are also available. These products make a beeping noise when it’s time for your blood pressure medication.
- Each time you take your blood pressure medication, write it down in a log or on a calendar, including the date and time that you took it.
Bottom line advice: If you forget to take your blood pressure medicine, don’t "double up" with an extra dose to make up for the lapse. Instead, just take your next scheduled dose.
When you travel, make sure to pack an adequate supply of blood pressure pills in your carry-on luggage, purse, or briefcase. Also, bring some extra pills with you in case your return home is delayed.
Never stop taking your blood pressure medication (or adjust its dose) on your own without first discussing it with your physician. Doing so can cause a dangerous spike in your blood pressure. Nor should you take a smaller dose (or skip a dose) in order to make your medicine last longer.
Let your doctor know if you’re having difficulty sticking with or paying for your pill regimen, and he or she may have some suggestions. In addition, don’t forget to refill your prescription with plenty of time to spare so you don’t run out of pills.
