Taking your medications as prescribed, or medication adherence, is particularly important for heart failure. Failing to take heart failure medications as directed can lead to worsening of symptoms, hospitalization, and shortened lifespan. Yet side effects, cost, and even simple forgetfulness can interfere with medication adherence.
Understanding why your provider has prescribed a particular medication, and making sure youre armed with the information you need to take it as directed, can help you stick to your drug regimen. Ask the following questions each time you are prescribed a new medication or if youd like to learn more about a drug youre already taking: