Safe Medication Use

For Your Health…

Tips for using medication wisely

ASK QUESTIONS IF YOU DO NOT KNOW:

1. Name of medication.
2. Description of medication: may include indications.
3. Dosage: how much should be taken and maximum amounts.
4. Route of administration: how the drug is consumed, e.g., whether it can be chewed.
5. Frequency of administration: when and how often the drug is to be taken.
6. Duration of therapy: includes instructions not to discontinue the medication unless directed by a physician.
7. Special directions or procedures for administration.
8. Side effects: symptoms that may be caused by the medication.
9. Interactions: what can and can not be taken with the medication, including food, alcohol and other drugs.
10. Disease effects: interactions with current conditions, including pregnancy.
11. Storage/Stability: temperature, lighting, and moisture protection conditions.
12. Refills: refill procedures, if indicated.
13. Directions in the event of a missed dose.
14. Self monitoring techniques.

PREVENT MEDICATION MISADVENTURES
ASK QUESTIONS!

• Use only one pharmacy for all your prescriptions, with a pharmacist who provides the kind of counseling services, patient profile record keeping and other professional pharmacy services you expect.
• Tell your doctor and your pharmacist about all medications, both prescription and non-prescription, that you are taking.
• Never take medications that are prescribed for another person, even if your symptoms are similar.
• If you are instructed to finish all of your medication, do not stop taking it just because your symptoms have disappeared.
• Throw away outdated medication.
• Never take medication in the dark. Always turn on the light and double-check the medication you are talking.
• Never mix tablets in a single container. Some chemicals react with each other, making them ineffective.
• Follow label directions and your pharmacist’s instructions carefully.
• Do not take more or less of the recommended dosage without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
• If you find it hard to remember to take your medication, ask your pharmacist for help.

The key to proper medication use is talking to your doctor and pharmacist about your medication. Do not be afraid you are bothering them with your questions. You are asking for information that will help you get well.

If a higher level of wellness is a personal goal of yours, but you are in need of some external guidance and motivation, contact your neighborhood Pharmacist / Nutritionist / Fitness Professionals at Carnegie-Sargent’s Pharmacy and Health Center.   (312) 280-1220.  Remember health promotion begins with you!