Aspire Magazine: Make the Most of your Meds
They keep our
bodies working,
help us feel better
and sometimes
even stop health
problems before
they start.
Medicines are
marvelous.
But to get the most out of them, you
have to take them safely. These tips can
help:
- Keep your health care providers
informed. Some medicines aren’t
safe when taken together. Anytime
you’re prescribed a medicine, be sure
your provider knows all of the other
medications you’re taking, including
herbals and other over-the-counter
products.
Using the same pharmacy for all of
your medications may also help you
avoid dangerous interactions.
- Get to know your medicine. Be clear
about what it is, why you take it, and
when and how to take it correctly.
You should also ask your doctor or
pharmacist if there are any foods or
activities you should avoid while using
the medicine.
Don’t hesitate to speak up if you
have questions or something doesn’t
seem right.
- Follow instructions exactly. It’s smart
to read the label before taking each
dose. Don’t chew, crush or break apart
pills unless your doctor says it’s OK.
If you’re taking liquid medicine, be
sure to use the dosing device that
comes with it. And while it’s not
always easy to get your little one to
Jessica Bessner, PharmD. Make the most
of your meds
Suggestions for smart and safe use
take their medication as prescribed,
parents and caregivers should never
refer to medicine as candy to get their
children to take it.
“It’s beneficial to educate children
on the differences between the two
because so many medications can
easily be mistaken for candy with
their bright-colored coatings and
fun shapes,” said Jessica Bessner,
PharmD, director of pharmacy at
Aspirus Keweenaw Hospital & Clinics.
“Teaching them the difference from
the very beginning can prevent
accidental ingestion and poisoning.”
- Be aware of possible side effects.
They sometimes occur. So it’s helpful to ask your doctor or pharmacist
what to watch for—and what to do if
problems arise.
- Don’t share medicines. Only a doctor
can decide what’s safe for you or
someone else.