Avoid These 11 Common Medication Mistakes for Better Health

Keeping track of your medications can be a complicated task, especially as we age and the number of prescriptions tends to increase. Even minor mistakes can have significant health impacts. Here, we highlight some common errors and provide expert advice on how to avoid them.

1. Skipping Doses

Whether it’s an intentional strategy to save money or simply an oversight, skipping doses is a prevalent issue. A study in 2021 found that around 9.2 million Americans don’t follow their prescription guidelines because of cost.

“While missing a dose or two might not seem like a big deal, it can have significant consequences,” says David Bates, M.D., Harvard Medical School professor.

Set reminders on your phone, use a pill organizer, or ask a loved one to help you stay consistent with your medication schedule.

2. Doubling Up on Medications

If you’ve ever forgotten whether you’ve taken a pill and decided to take another just in case, you’re not alone. Doubling up can be hazardous.

“Don’t take it if you’re not sure,” advises Hedva Barenholtz Levy, a geriatric pharmacist.

Consult your pharmacist if you’re uncertain about taking a second dose or choosing to skip it for the day.

3. Forgetting Timing for Multiple Doses

If you need to take medications multiple times a day, remembering the timing can be tricky.

“If you remember the missed dose within two hours, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the time for the next scheduled dose, then skip the missed dose,” says Barenholtz Levy.

Pill holders with day and time compartments can be a lifesaver. Some modern pillboxes even come with alarms and smartphone app integration.

4. Getting the Wrong Medication at the Pharmacy

Mistakes can happen at the pharmacy counter. A review study suggests that dispensing errors occur in more than 2 out of every 100 medications.

“Patients feel pressured at the counter, but take the time to open the bag and make sure it’s the right medicine,” recommends Michael Gaunt, senior manager at the Institute for Safe Medicine Practices.

Always double-check the label, your name, and even the appearance of the medication before you leave the pharmacy.

5. Misunderstanding Medication Instructions

Reading and comprehending prescription instructions can sometimes be confusing. Misunderstanding these can lead to improper medication use.

Take advantage of the pharmacist’s offer to explain the medication instructions. Ask questions about potential interactions and how to take the medication correctly.

6. Missing Potential Interactions

Many seniors are on multiple medications, and the risk of drug interactions is high. Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you’re taking.

Your pharmacist is an excellent resource for checking interactions. They can identify potential issues and offer safer alternatives.

7. Stopping Medication Without Consulting a Doctor

Discontinuing a medication because you feel better or because of side effects can be risky. This is particularly crucial for medications treating chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes.

Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

8. Splitting Pills Incorrectly

Some medications can be safely split, but not all. Incorrectly splitting pills can affect the dosage and efficacy.

Ask your pharmacist if your medication can be split and if so, request a pill splitter for accurate dosing.

9. Storing Medications Improperly

Medications often come with specific storage instructions. Ignoring these can result in reduced effectiveness.

Store your medications in a cool, dry place unless otherwise specified. Avoid storing them in places with fluctuating temperatures like your bathroom.

10. Neglecting to Refill Prescriptions on Time

Running out of medication can disrupt your treatment. Many pharmacies offer auto-refill options to ensure you don’t miss a dose.

Set a calendar reminder or utilize your pharmacy’s auto-refill service to stay on top of your prescriptions.

11. Not Discussing Over-the-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter medications and supplements can interact with your prescriptions. Always inform your healthcare provider about everything you’re taking.

“Pharmacists can search for discounts or talk to your doctor to see if a less expensive medicine can be prescribed,” says Chad Worz, a geriatric pharmacist.

Managing medications effectively is crucial to maintaining your health. By avoiding these common mistakes and taking advantage of available resources, you can ensure that your medications are working for you, not against you.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Source