eNewsletter - August 2010
Suggestions for the Effective Use of Medications
- Read all labels carefully.
- Know your drug and food allergies.
- Make a list of your medications and dosages. Keep this with you and update it as necessary.
- Eye drops, skin lotions, and vitamins are considered medications and should be included on your list. Also include any herbal products and over-the-counter medications.
- Make ALL health care providers aware of ALL the medications you are using. Give each a list of your current medications.
- Use pill boxes that will separate your medications into days of the week and times of the day.
- Read the package insert and/or patient product information sheet that comes with your prescription. Review possible drug side effects (i.e.., adverse reactions), warnings, and precautions. Most side effects or adverse reactions will occur when a new drug is just started, but this is not always the case. Some drug reactions may be delayed.
- Anticipate when your medications will be running out and have your prescriptions renewed as necessary.
- Use one pharmacy if possible.
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