Each year in the United States, there are more than 1.5 million emergency visits caused by adverse drug effects (reactions) which can occur when taking medications improperly. Causes for the increased numbers of adverse drug effects include the use of increased numbers of medications prescribed, the aging population, and the development and use for new medications. Since medication safety can reduce the risk of harm for you and your loved ones, I thought it would be helpful to include some helpful tips:
- Follow the instructions on the label on the bottle. Instructions might include whether to take the medication with or without food, the dosage (pay special attention if it says to take ½ tablet), the time of the day, how many times a day to take the medication, or how many days a week (some may be every other day or certain days of the week) to take the medication.
- Read the patient information that is included with your medications. Although the it might seem a little overwhelming, it is important to read it. There are medications that instruct people to avoid certain foods while taking those medications, while others direct when to take the meds. One of the most important things this information includes is the side effects the medications could cause, so it is really important to be knowledgeable about these. If you experience any side effects from your medications, it is important you notify your doctor/healthcare provider asap, so you know how to proceed.
- Make sure your doctor is aware of all your medications. Keep a current list of the medications in your purse, wallet, or phone. Bring that list to the healthcare provider/hospital every time you visit them. Since it is important to keep the list up to date, it is a good idea to transcribe the medications in pencil since medications and dosages change. There are medication logs/cards available at St. Therese of Lisieux Church near the Emergency Medical Equipment Alcove in the Gathering Space. Feel free to take one for you, your loved ones, and friends.
- Store your medications in a safe place at home away from children.
- Protect your medications from light. Some medications could be affected by the sunlight.If possible, place the medications in a cabinet and out of sight.
- When preparing your medications at home for the day or week, sit down at a table and prepare your medications to avoid dropping on the floor.
- When you are prescribed a new medication, be sure the doctor is aware of the other medications you take.
- Call the pharmacy for your refill BEFORE you run out of medicine. If your pharmacy provides automatic refill notifications, take advantage of those.
- Take advantage of your pharmacist! He/she can be a wonderful resource if you have questions about your medications. When you pick up your medications at the pharmacy, if you would like counselling about your new medications, ask to speak with the pharmacist.
- If you are prescribed a new medication, make sure you know:
- The name of the medication and why you take it.
- How long you will need to take it.
- The proper way to take it.
- How to store it.
- What to do if you miss a dose.
- If it could possibly interact with other medications, you take.
- Add the new medication to your medication list!
Although taking medications is sometimes a bothersome task, it is important to take the medicine responsibly. Not doing so can cause safety issues and reduce the benefits of the medications. Taking your prescribed medication may not only help improve your health, it may be helpful in preventing future health problems.
On August 1, 2024 from 12:30pm-1:30pm in the Social Hall, St. Therese of Lisieux will host a presentation by Kevin Foster, a Pharmacist from Costco on Medication Safety. This will be an opportunity to hear important information on medication safety, as well as ask questions about the medications you take. Since we will be serving a light lunch, please RSVP by Wednesday, July 31, 2024 to the Parish Secretary at 586-254-4433 or Marilyn Cito, Parish Nurse at 586-254-4433 #320 or via email at Marilync@stol.church.
Adapted from:
- https://www.cdc.gov/medication-safety/about/index, Medication Safety Program, April 17, 2024.
- Henry Ford Health System, Caregiver Resources, The Henry Ford C.A.R.E Program, Medication Safety, “Do you use your medicine properly?” Staying Safe with Your Medicine.