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