Ways to help you organize your meds to ensure that they keep you healthy.
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
If you take multiple medications, you’re not alone.
Many people, especially older folks, do.
Medicines can help you live a longer, healthier life.
But the more you take, the higher the risk of side effects as well as drug interactions… that is, one medicine affecting how another works.
To reduce these risks, keep an updated list of everything you take, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Share a copy with all your health care providers and keep one in your phone or wallet.
Use a pill organizer to keep track of what to take when. You can also post schedules or reminders, or use a smartphone medication reminder app.
Try to use the same pharmacy to fill all your prescriptions. That way, the pharmacist can flag any potential drug interactions.
Review your list from time to time with your main provider. Ask if you still need all the medications and whether different drugs or dosages might be better.
When starting a new drug, make certain you understand the instructions for taking it.
If you aren’t sure, ask your pharmacist or provider. Also ask about possible side effects and interactions.
Contact your provider if you think you might be experiencing them. But don’t stop a prescribed medicine on your own.
By being proactive, you’ll help ensure that your medications are as safe and effective as possible.