Missing a dose of your daily medicines might not seem like a big deal, but it can have real consequences. Despite good intentions, many patients find it difficult to keep up with their daily medications whether it’s one pill or 10. Skipping a dose may seem harmless but in the long-term, it can have an effect, even though it might not be apparent at first. 

• Keep a list of all your medications, including over-the-counter ones. Use a small notebook or a smart phone to track all changes. There are also several apps  to help people to manage their routine. 

• Take your meds at the same time every day. Those times might coincide with your morning coffee or meals, after brushing your teeth or a shower, or at bedtime. 

• Leave yourself notes to help you remember. Post-it Notes on your bathroom mirror or nightstand work  great, You can also use a dry-erase board to keep track of pills you have taken, erasing reminders after each dose.  

• Use a pillbox with the days of the week.Keep your pillbox in a visible place, such as the kitchen table, and away from moisture, heat and light — as well as children and pets. 

• Keep a calendar to write down doses and when refills are due. If you’re running low on a medication, contact your health care provider or pharmacist before it’s gone. You can get refills on meds one week prior to running out. 

• Set an alarm in your home or on your smartphone or watch to remind you when to take your pills. 

• Ask your pharmacist if they have reminder tops caps with reminder alarms  for your medications. Purchase a pill cutter if you need to cut your pills in half. 

• Turn your bottle upside down after you take your pills, then turn it upright at the end of the day as a reminder to start fresh tomorrow.