Hi Jen,
The side effects from the meds do get easier over time as your body gets used to them.
I have a poor memory on my med (Trileptal) I am ok with taking my med,as I take them twice a day, with my first cup of coffee of the day and with my last drink at night, so far I have not forgotten them, however when I was on Tegretol, I had to set the alarm on my mobile phone to remind me to take them.
Make yourself a little list, but don't forget where you leave it, stick in on the fridge or somewhere, where you can see it often.

I hope your pain continues to lessen.

Tracy x