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Advice on Safe Medication Use

Medications, when used properly, can offer great benefits and sometimes even save lives. On the other hand, if a medication is used improperly or a medication error occurs, the consequences can be disastrous. If you are taking medication for any reason, there are a number of precautions you can take to ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones.

Make a list of your current medications and provide both your doctor and pharmacist with a copy. This will not only help you keep track of your medications, but also help your doctor and pharmacist prevent any potentially adverse drug or allergy interactions.

Learn the names (brand and generic) of all the drugs you are taking.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a printed information sheet on each of your medications. This will usually include helpful information regarding dosage instructions as well as potential drug side effects.

Keep medications in their original containers. This is especially important since many pills look alike.

Read the label with each dose. Make sure you have the right drug and are following the proper dosage instructions.

Take medication exactly as instructed. Chewing, crushing, or breaking capsules may alter the effectiveness of the drug. Ask your doctor what type of liquid or foods can and cannot be taken with your medication.

Take liquid medications with the approved measuring device. Most liquid medications come with a measuring device such as a cup or a dropper to ensure proper dosage. You may also ask your pharmacist for a special oral syringe for measuring dosage.

Never take medication prescribed for someone else. Prescriptions are tailored to the individual and what helps one person could harm another.

Keep medications out of the reach of children. Furthermore, when disposing of medications, flush them down the toilet to prevent children or animals from accidentally ingesting them.

Store medications away from household chemicals. You should also be sure to keep tubes of ointment and other creams away from tubes of toothpaste to avoid mistaking one for the other.

Store medications in a cool, dry place. Heat, humidity, and light can all affect the potency and safety of medications. Always store your medicines as instructed in the labeling or by your health care provider.

Post the name and number of your doctor and pharmacist in a conspicuous place. If there is a medical emergency, you will have this information readily available. It is also helpful to have this information on your person in the event of an accident outside your home. If you take a medicine with time-sensitive dosing requirements (e.g. insulin), you should also consider wearing a medical alert tag that can help responders care for you in an emergency.

Following these guidelines can help you prevent errors when taking medication. Remember that doctors, nurses, and pharmacists exist to help protect your health and well-being. If you have any questions about your medications or your safety, don't be afraid to ask. It's your right.

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