The more drugs the doctor prescribes for various conditions, the
harder it is to keep up with what you're taking and when you're
supposed to take it. The confusion can lead to a missed dose or a
mistake. Mistakes often result in dangerous side effects of
medications interacting. Take a few moments to get organized so you
can avoid these problems.
Here are a few tips to help manage the multitudes of
medications:
Use Only ONE Pharmacy
If possible, have all your medications filled at the same
pharmacy. This will allow your pharmacist to track your medications
and alert you to possible drug interactions that could be
troublesome.
Make a List
Keep an updated list of all the over-the-counter and
prescription medications you are taking with you at all times.
Share this list with each member of your health care team when on
doctor visits or visiting the pharmacist. The list should include
the name of each medication, the dosage information, and the reason
you are taking it.
Make a File
After you read all the information that accompanies each
prescription medication, file it in a place where you can find it
should you ever have questions about side effects or dosage.
Get a Routine
Managing multiple prescriptions can be difficult at first. Try
getting into a routine of taking meds the same time each day (at
meal time or bedtime). If you rely on a calendar, like me, to help
you remember the most important days and events, writing your
medication times down can serve as a great visual cue to help keep
you on target. There are several fantastic pill organizers on the
market now that can organize your meds up to a month in advance for
added convenience. However, if you just can't seem to get into a
good medication rhythm on your own, don't stress yourself out.
There are medical alert companies that place reminder calls when
it's time to take the next dose.
Take a few minutes today to organize your medications and
consider a plan or technique that will establish a consistent
routine. Not only will you feel a little less frazzled, you'll also
be more likely to avoid dangerous medication mix ups.
Carrie Robertson
Research & Community Education
Chicago Senior Living
Assisted Living
in Chicago