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Cardiovascular Institute
Cardiovascular Institute
Cardiac Medications
ACE Inhibitors
Alpha Bockers
Antiarrhythmic Agents
Anticoagulants
Aspirin
Beta Blockers
Guidelines for Taking Medicine
List of Cardiac Medications
Cardiology Tests & Procedures
Heart Disease
Heart Disease Recovery/Prevention
Thoracic Aortic Surgery
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Cardiovascular Institute
Cardiovascular Institute
Clinical Services » Cardiovascular Institute » Cardiac Medications » Guidelines for Taking Medicine
Cardiology - Torrance Memorial

Guidelines for Taking Medicine

  • Take Medication exactly as prescribed by the doctor.
  • Know the name, amount, when to take, and side effects of each medication.
  • Check with the doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions:
    • Whether the medication should be taken with meals to decrease side effects, such as nausea?
    • Whether the medication should be taken on an empty stomach, before or after meals, as food may decrease it's effectiveness?
    • Does four times a day mean taking the medication every six hours around the clock, or can it be taken just during the waking hours such as breakfast, lunch, dinner and bedtime?
  • Never decrease the amount or stop taking any medication without consulting with the doctor first.
  • Do not wait until the medication runs out to have the prescription refilled. Missing a dose may decrease the effectiveness.
  • Be careful not to miss a dose. If a dose is missed, do not take double the prescribed dose at the next scheduled time. Check with the pharmacist or the doctor first.
  • Do not take over-the-counter medications without first checking with the doctor or pharmacist regarding any interactions with other medications.
  • Never take any prescription medication that has been prescribed for someone else.
  • The patient may or may not experience side effects listed. Everyone reacts differently and has different levels of tolerance.
  • Do not crush or chew medications that are sustained-released or enteric - coated. Swallow whole.