HOPE CHESTS - Past Meetings
March 6, 2001
"Taking Control of Your Medications"
Tanya McNamara, R.PH., Regstered Pharmacist
WHAT YOUR PHYSICIAN NEEDS TO KNOW
Allergies
Special diets
Medical conditions other than the currently being treated
Difficulty remembering
Difficulty reading or seeing labels
Difficulty with handling small items
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT YOUR MEDICATION
- Brand and generic name
- What it is for and expected results
- When and how to take it
- Missed doses
- Restrictions in diet or activities
- Cost and need for refills
STORAGE OF MEDICATIONS
- Out of reach of children
- Original containers
- Away from heat and direct light
- Liquids away from freezing
- Not in refrigerator unless intended
- Limit time in automobile
-
Expiration date and care in discarding medication - Prescription Drugs expire one year after dispensed
PRECAUTIONS AND SIDE EFFECTS
- Don't share medications
- Mixing with other medications and alcohol
- Over dosage
- Side effects
- Notifying physician
- Traveling - take in original container, don't put in checked luggage
INFORMED MANAGEMENT OF MEDICATIONS
-
Establishing a system
- Documentation
Finishing medications and discontinuing medications
- Clarification of directions
SAFETY AND ACCURACY
- Don't take medication in the dark
- Liquid medication precautions-standard measuring device
- Taking with food and water as directed
- Interruptions
- Crushing/chewing
- Taking wrong medication or dose
- Read labels every time
POISON CONTROL CENTER: 1-800-256-9822
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