Your medications will work best when you take them on time.

Treating Parkinson’s isn’t as simple as taking one pill a day. You may need to try a few drugs at different doses before you see an improvement.

If you start to experience “wearing off” periods and your symptoms come back, you may have to switch to a new drug or take your medication more often.

Follow these tips to stay on top of your Parkinson’s medication schedule.

When you get a new Parkinson’s prescription, ask your doctor these questions:

  • What is this drug?
  • How does it work?
  • How will it help my Parkinson’s symptoms?
  • How much should I take?
  • At what time(s) should I take it?
  • Should I take it with food, or on an empty stomach?
  • What medications or foods could interact with it?
  • What side effects might it cause?
  • What should I do if I have side effects?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose?
  • When should I call you?

Ask the doctor if you can simplify your medication routine. For example, you might be able to take fewer pills each day. Or, you might use a patch instead of a pill for some of your medications.

Let your doctor know right away if you notice any side effects from your medications.

Use the same pharmacy to fill all your prescriptions. This will streamline the refill process and give your pharmacist a record of everything you take. Your pharmacist can then be aware of any possible interactions.

With the help of your doctor and pharmacist, keep an up-to-date list of all the medications you take, including ones you purchase over the counter. Note the dose of each drug and when you take it.

You may want to keep the list on your smartphone or write it down on a small notepad and carry it in your purse or wallet.

Review your medication list periodically to ensure it’s up to date. Also, check to see if drugs interact with one another. Bring the list with you when you see your doctor or a new healthcare professional.

A pill dispenser separates your medications by day and time of day to keep you organized and on schedule. Automatic pill dispensers take it one step further by releasing your medication at just the right time.

Higher tech pill dispensers sync up with a smartphone app. Your phone will send you a notification or sound an alarm when it’s time to take your pills.

Need a pill dispenser?

Check out Healthline’s list of the best pill dispensers.

Use the alarm function on your cellphone or watch to remind you when it’s time to take the next dose. Choose a ringtone that will get your attention.

When your alarm rings, don’t switch it off. You may become preoccupied and forget. Go into the bathroom (or wherever you keep your pills) right away and take your medication. Then, turn off the alarm.

There are also some apps to help with this, such as StrivePD.

Many pharmacies will automatically refill your prescriptions and call you when they’re ready. If you prefer to handle your refills, call the pharmacy at least a week before your medication runs out to make sure you have enough.

Sticking to your Parkinson’s treatment may be a challenge, but tools like drug dispensers, auto refills, and apps on your smartphone can make medication management easier.

If you have side effects or your medication doesn’t relieve your symptoms, don’t stop taking it. Talk with your doctor about other options.