Managing multiple medications? These 6 tips for medication safety can help you optimize results while minimizing risks.
The power of modern medications is incredible. From curing illnesses to reducing pain to solving nutritional deficiencies, it can seem as if there is very little that a pill can't fix. At the same time, it is important to understand that many medications can pose danger if they are mismanaged. And the more medications you are taking, the easier it becomes to make a mistake.
Understanding the basics of medication safety can help you optimize your results while minimizing side effects and other risks. Follow these 6 tips for medication safety to protect yourself and get the most from your treatment.
Why These 6 Tips for Medication Safety Matter
According to the FDA, medication errors harm at least 1.5 million people every year in the United States. The World Health Organization reports that medication-related harm affects 1 out of every 30 patients in healthcare, and the global cost of medication errors is estimated at $42 billion annually.
The good news? Most medication mistakes are preventable when you know what to watch for.
1. Take an Active Approach to Understanding Your Condition and Treatment
Until just a few decades ago, many doctors subscribed to the notion that their patients should only be given medical information on a need-to-know basis. In recent years, however, the medical community has come to a consensus that people fare best when they become active participants in their healthcare.
In order for this to happen, however, you must take initiative. Asking questions whenever in doubt, finding trusted resources to learn more about your condition, and always reading the full labels of your medications carefully are a few good ways of getting started.
2. Don't Stop or Start a Medication Without Consulting Your Doctor
This is one of the most common and one of the most harmful medication mistakes. It often occurs when people become frustrated by side effects or fear that their medications are not working effectively.
If you have doubts about either of these issues, however, contacting your healthcare provider is the first step you should take before making any changes. Similarly, if you feel that an old health condition is flaring up, you should make an appointment before taking those old medications you have stored away.
3. Get Organized
There are no right or wrong ways of organizing your medication schedule. Everyone is different, and the important thing is that your strategy works for you. All the same, a few common tricks that you may wish to try out include:
- Using a daily pill organizer
- Setting alarms on your phone
- Asking a family member or friend for a reminder
- Writing or printing a schedule and displaying it prominently
- Creating a medication journal and making a log each time you take a medication
4. Have Open and Honest Conversations with Your Doctors and Pharmacist
It is important that your doctors and pharmacists know about all your health conditions, all your medication use, your diet, and any drug/alcohol use. Without this information, the treatment choices they make could put you in danger.
Full disclosure isn't just about safety, it's about getting the most effective treatment possible. Your healthcare providers can't help you if they don't have the complete picture.
5. Take Proper Medication Storage Seriously
Pills that have been exposed to extreme temperature, high humidity, direct sunlight, and other adverse conditions can become ineffective or worse, dangerous. So, pay attention to the storage directions listed with your meds, and be sure to follow these instructions exactly.
Most medications should be stored in a cool, dry place. Contrary to popular belief, this often means the bathroom medicine cabinet is NOT the best location due to humidity from showers.
6. Understand That Medications Have Their Limits
Generally speaking, virtually all medications work best when supplemented with a healthy diet and lifestyle. This is especially true of medications prescribed to help manage pain.
Before you reach for pain medication, consider asking yourself a few important questions about what your body is actually trying to tell you. Read: 3 Questions to Ask Before Taking Pain Pills to learn a strategic approach to pain management that addresses root causes, not just symptoms.
Your body is intelligent. Pain is information. And sometimes, understanding what your pain is communicating can be more powerful than any pill.
The Bottom Line on Medication Safety
Following these 6 tips for medication safety can dramatically reduce your risk of adverse events and help you get the most benefit from your treatment. Remember: you are your own best advocate when it comes to your health. Stay informed, stay organized, and never hesitate to ask questions.
