How to Change Blood Pressure Medication

At some point you may want to change your blood pressure medication. There are numerous medications available to patients with a variety of side effects. Some of these have a different effect on one person than it may on another. Taking the correct medication, eating a healthy diet and exercising on a regular basis, at least 30 minutes a day, can lower blood pressure. This strict regiment may also prevent a heart attack or a stroke.

Instructions

• 1

  Schedule an exam with the doctor who prescribed the blood pressure medication. Let the doctor know of any side effects you may have experienced and why you want to change to a different medication.

• 2

  Ask about side effects that others may have experienced with blood pressure medications. Side effects may be unavoidable, but some are more manageable than others.Ask if you can take home a few samples to determine which medication works best for you.

• 3

  Take the new medication as prescribed. It may take a few days or even two to three weeks to feel the total effect. Keep a daily journal of when the medication was taken and any reactions you may have experienced.

• 4

  Call the doctor immediately if any abnormal reactions occur such as hives, dizziness, numbness or difficulty in breathing. People react differently to certain changes in medications.

• 5

  Make a follow-up appointment with the doctor to determine if the new blood pressure medication is working appropriately. Show the doctor the daily journal and ask questions if need be.