If you or someone you know is taking any blood pressure (BP) medications or any medications that can affect your BP, you must learn how to take your BP at home or have someone taking & keeping an eye on your numbers. Take the BP shortly before taking the medication and if possible, about 1 to 2hrs after. Keep a chart of date, time, BP numbers & heart rate. Take this with you the next time you go see the prescribing Provider. They will use that record to determine whether you are taking too much or too little of your medication(s) i.e. they will evaluate the effectiveness. You & your Provider will then determine which BP & HR #s they'll like for you to have. A spot visit in your Dr's office doesn't tell your Provider the whole story. The goal of managing your BP is to prevent a stroke or sudden cardiac arrest. Failure to effectively manage your BP can lead to these complications. Take action while you can by doing your part.