Senior Home Health Care – Medication Safety

IHHS — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:30:28 +0000

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”

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