Use Medicines Wisely

Use Medicines Wisely

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that seniors need to take extra care with both prescription and over-the-counter medications. As we get older, many of us begin to take multiple medications, which can increase our risk for potentially dangerous drug interactions. Plus, keeping track of multiple medications and taking them exactly as prescribed can be a challenge.About 30% to 50% of those who use medicines do not use them as directed. This causes more doctor visits, hospital stays, lost wages, and changed prescriptions. All this costs Americans more than $100 billion each year.  Here are some tips for managing your medications:

1. READ THE LABEL

Before you take any medicine, read the label. The label should show:

• List of ingredients- If you know you are allergic to anything in the medicine, don’t use it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a different medicine.
• Warnings--Read these carefully.
• The expiration date - Do not use a medicine after the date on the bottle. It may not work as well.

 2. AVOID PROBLEMS

• Ask about the side effects of the medicines you are taking.
• Organize your medicines.
• Do not share medicines.
• Do not take medicine in the dark.

 3. ASK QUESTIONS•    What is the medicine's name?•    Why am I taking this medicine?•    When should I take it?•    Should I take this on an empty stomach or with food?

• If I forget to take it, what should I do?

•    How much should I take?•    How long am I to take it?•    What problems should I watch for?4.  TRACK YOUR MEDICATIONSThe FDA offers a "My Medicines" brochure, which can help consumers track the medications they use. My Medicines features a chart that allows you to list information about your prescription medicines, including the names of the medicines, how much you take, when you take them, what condition they are treating and the number of refills.The brochure is available at My Medicines.