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Aug 21

Senior Home Health Care – Medication Safety

Medication Management No Comments »

Here are some important facts for seniors and their loved ones to know about taking medications:

  • DO bring a list of all prescription and over the counter medications to doctor visits, and have the doctor review all medications.
  • DO be sure to take all the medication prescribed for you.
  • DO take what is prescribed “more or less is not better”
  • DO have a system to remember what medications you’ve taken and when to take them, especially if you take several different drugs.
  • Do throw away all old medications.
  • DO drink a full glass of water when taking tablets or capsules. Always take them standing or sitting—not lying down.
  • DO chew chewable tablets thoroughly and wash them down with a glass of water.
  • DO shake bottles of liquid medications before use.
  • DO always store medications out of the reach of children.
  • DO take antacids or laxatives either two hours before or two hours after taking other medications.
  • Do keep medication refrigerated if directed.
  • DO try to use a single pharmacy to fill all your prescriptions; your pharmacist can help you avoid drug interactions.
  • DO report any symptoms to your doctor. He/she will help you decide if the symptoms are caused by the medication, and if you should stop taking it.
  • DO be alert for side effects that could increase the risk of falling, such as dizziness and balance problems, fatigue or drowsiness, confusion, loss of coordination or weakness.
  • Do ask if any foods, alcohol, or other medications should be avoided.
  • DON’T take more or less than the prescribed dosage, unless directed to do so by your doctor.
  • DON’T stop taking a medication suddenly without checking with your doctor—even if you feel better.
  • DON’T mix alcohol and medicine, unless approved by your doctor. Many drugs react in a negative way when combined with alcohol.
  • DON’T take medication prescribed for someone else or give yours to another person.
  • DON’T keep old or expired medications.
  • DON’T ignore side effects—call your physician! “If you develop hives, difficulty breathing and /or convulsion call 911”
  • DON’T split drugs in half unless pharmacist says YES”

Medication Management

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