Become a Patient

Organizing Your COPD Medications

The medications used to treat COPD can be divided into two general categories:

  1. those meant to be taken on an "as needed" basis to make your breathing better right away;
  2. and those that need to be taken regularly (usually every day) , as prescribed, in order to be effective.

Print this page, or use your own paper and note which of your medications fall into each category below. Write in your thoughts and concerns. Show your answers to your doctor.

"As Needed" Medications: Thoughts and Concerns:                                              



"Every Day"  Medications: Thoughts and Concerns:                                



Timing of Medications

Some medications work best when taken before, after, or at a different time than other medications. List all the medications you take at each time of the day and in the order you usually take them. See if this is the order your doctor thinks is best for you.

 Morning  Afternoon  Evening  Bedtime
1. 1. 1. 1.
2. 2.  2.  2.
3. 3. 3. 3. 
4.  4.  4.  4. 
5.  5.  5.  5. 

It may be hard to remember to take all of your medications. Recognizing this and taking steps to help yourself remember is an important aspect of managing your COPD.

Learn more tips for managing your COPD medications .

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Note: This information is provided to you as an educational service of National Jewish Health. It is not meant to be a substitute for consulting with your own physician.

© Copyright 2008 National Jewish Health