The danger of misusing medications
Author: Sophie Gao (Pharm. D. Candidate) Reviewer: Dr. Steven Shao (Pharm. D)
A popular saying in Chinese is that all medications have the potential to be poisonous. This does not mean that we should not take medications but rather that we should take them with care.
People with certain medication conditions, especially those who are elderly or pregnant need to be extra careful about their medications.
For older people, aging makes seniors more vulnerable to the harmful effects of some medications. For example, some sleep medications or pain medications raise the risk of confusion, falls, and fractures. As people age, they are also more likely to take multiple medications. This puts older adults at a higher risk of over-treatment, potential drug interactions, and harmful side effects.
How to safely take prescription medications:
Know the purpose of your medications
Make a medication list
Include names, doses, and how you take them.
Include prescription, non-prescription medications, supplements, herbal products
Use a pill-box or organizer to keep track of your medications
Read the label before taking medications.
If you are unable to due to eyesight, language, or other barriers, ask for help.
Make sure your doctor knows your allergies, medication conditions, and medications
Follow the direction of your doctor and pharmacist
including instructions around food, alcohol, natural products
Do not start or stop medications on your own or change the doses without asking your doctor first.
Store medications securely out of reach of children or pets
in a cool dry place for room temperature drugs
Follow special storage instructions such as refrigeration
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions or concerns
Your pharmacy can actually help you make your life much easier while keeping you safe.
Ways your pharmacist can help:
Organize medications for you to make it easier to remember doses
Labels in different languages
Different packaging such as easy-open caps
Packaging medications for you in a blister pack
Offer easier ways of taking the current medication.
Eg: for swallowing problems, they can suggest different forms of the same drug
Help choose non-prescription options for minor problems
Offer refills reminders to prevent running out of medications
Safely dispose of medications that are expired or no longer needed
Answer questions:
Is this medication safe to take with my other drugs?
Should I take this with or without food? Does the time of day matter?
What do I do if I missed a dose?
What do I need to look out for?
Medicines are extremely useful tools to help you manage your health. However, like everything in life, they can also carry risks. Doctors and pharmacists can work with you to make sure that the medications you are taking are the most appropriate for you. Please discuss with them before making any decisions that affect your health.
If you are not sure whether your medications are suitable for you or if you have trouble managing your medicine, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. We are always here to help.
Legal Disclaimer
These presentations are intended for general information purposes only. Audience are recommended to consult with qualified healthcare provider and obtain professional advice and subsequent management for your particular conditions. The views and opinions expressed by the speakers do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of Assisting in Medical Expectations.
