Take your blood pressure pills as prescribed

Many people need medicine to control high blood pressure. People with CKD and kidney failure usually need pills to lower their blood pressure. In fact, many people with CKD need two or more blood pressure drugs to bring their blood pressure into a normal range.

You may not like to take drugs. But in many cases, lifestyle changes may not be enough to control your blood pressure. When you combine drugs with lifestyle changes, you have the best chance of keeping your blood pressure in the healthful range.

Though rare, you may be allergic to a new drug, and all drugs may have side effects. Your doctor and pharmacist can help you sort out which is which. Many side effects ease up in time, when your body gets used to a new drug. At the end of this module, we'll give you a handy chart that will list possible side effects of blood pressure pills.

Report any new symptoms right away—but don't stop taking a blood pressure pill unless your doctor tells you to. Stopping some drugs suddenly can be harmful. When you start a new blood pressure pill, avoid driving or using heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

Blood pressure pills can only work if you take them the right way. This means understanding—and believing—that your blood pressure may be high even when you can't feel it. Taking your blood pressure pills only when you think your pressure is high won't work. Here are some other tips to help you take your blood pressure pills so they will work best for you. Check the ones that might be helpful to remember:

Not sure how to take a new blood pressure pill? Read the label and talk to the pharmacist. Ask about when and how often to take the pills, and whether they need to be taken with or without food.
Can't recall when to take your pills? Try a medication reminder box, a timer, or figure out a way to fit your pills into your daily routine.
Missed a dose? Take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for the next dose.
Can't afford your pills? Talk to your doctor. There are so many blood pressure pills on the market that a cheaper one may work just as well. Samples may be available, or some drug companies may offer discounts or free medications to people who cannot afford them. Don't borrow, trade, or lend pills, though. A blood pressure pill that works well for someone else may not work for you, and vice versa.
Side effects make a blood pressure pill too hard to take? Talk to your doctor. A different drug in the same (or a different) class may cause fewer problems and work just as well.
Worried about drug interactions? Talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all of the medications you are taking so they can alert you.
Not sure how to store your pills safely? Keep them in a cool, dry place, like a cupboard.