If you take a heart medicine, you may have a few questions. It’s important you understand your medicines, what they’re for and how to take them correctly.
After your heart event or diagnosis, your doctor will have prescribed several new medicines. It's normal to sometimes feel a bit overwhelmed with everything you need to remember about your medicines. Even if you've been taking them for a while, you might still have questions.
Below is a list of answers to the most frequently asked questions about heart medicines.
Heart medicines work in different ways and are prescribed to you depending on your heart condition. It is common to need to take more than one heart medicine.
Common types of heart medicines include medicines to:
These medicines can come in tablet, capsule, spray or patch forms.
It is important to take your heart medicines to:
Many heart conditions affect people throughout their life. This means you might need to take heart medicines for your whole life. But the type of medicine and the dose may change over time.
For other medicines, you might only need them for a short time, for example after having a heart procedure. And you might only need to take some medicines when you have symptoms, such as glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) spray to treat angina.
Always take the dose of medicine as prescribed and don’t stop taking your medicine, even if you feel well. Many heart medicines, such as blood pressure medicines, need to be taken regularly, even when you have no symptoms. Always speak to your doctor or pharmacist before making any changes to your medicines.
Sometimes you might accidentally miss a dose of your heart medicine. Unless told otherwise by your doctor or pharmacist, if you miss a dose, take your next usual dose at the normal time. Never take a double dose.
All medicines can have possible side effects. Before starting a new medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects and make sure to tell them about any other medicines you take, including over-the-counter medicines. If you experience any side effects, speak to your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible.
Some people might have difficulty swallowing tablets. Or they might find it hard to open the medicine packaging or read the label. If you are having trouble, it’s best to speak to your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible. They can help you find a solution.
If you find it hard to remember to take your medicines, try these helpful tips:
If you have more questions about your medicines, speak with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. Contact Medicines Line on 1300 MEDICINE (1300 633 424) for information on medicines, including the best ways to take and store them and any possible side effects.
Last updated28 May 2024