Keeping one accurate, current list of everything you take — prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, supplements — is one of the simplest things you can do to prevent a genuinely common and dangerous problem: medication errors from an incomplete picture at the ER, a new specialist's office, or the pharmacy. Print this page, fill it in, and update it every time something changes.
Why This Matters
Heart medications interact with an unusually wide range of other drugs and supplements, and heart patients often see multiple prescribers who may not automatically see each other's records. A complete list — brought to every appointment, not just recreated from memory when asked — is one of the most effective, low-effort safety tools available to you.
Your Medication List
| Medication Name | Dose | How Often | What It's For | Prescribed By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Allergies & Reactions
| Medication or Substance | Reaction |
|---|---|
Key Contacts
| Role | Name | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist | ||
| Primary Care Doctor | ||
| Pharmacy | ||
| Emergency Contact |
Keeping It Current
- Update it the same day any medication changes — a new prescription, a stopped medication, or a dose adjustment
- Bring it to every appointment, not just cardiology visits — every prescriber benefits from seeing the full picture
- Keep a photo of it on your phone in addition to the paper copy, for moments you don't have the paper with you
- Include over-the-counter medications and supplements — many, including some pain relievers and herbal supplements, genuinely interact with heart medications
Common Questions
Do I really need to include over-the-counter medications and supplements?
Yes — NSAIDs like ibuprofen, certain herbal supplements, and even some antacids can meaningfully interact with heart medications or affect blood pressure and kidney function.
How often should I update this?
Immediately after any change, not on a schedule — an out-of-date list is only marginally better than no list at all.
What if I don't know what a medication is for?
That's worth asking your prescriber directly — understanding why you're taking something makes you more likely to take it consistently, and helps you catch a mistake if one is ever made.