Keeping Track of Medications Safely

The over 65 population in America purchases and consumes more medications than any other age group. According to the Food and Drug Administration, they purchase more than 30 percent of all prescription medication and more than 40 percent of over the counter (OTC) medicines. Estimates are that as many as 90 percent of seniors use either herbal remedies or vitamins.
Interactions:
Drug interactions are especially a concern for seniors. Some experts estimate that seniors take an average of four to five medications on a daily basis. If physicians aren’t aware of all medications a senior is taking, there is the potential for dangerous drug interactions.
To guard against an interaction, make a list of all medications, vitamins and herbal remedies that your loved one is taking. Also, beside each medication, write the contact information of the physician who prescribed the medicine. Some physicians may not realize how many other doctors their patients are seeing. Take this list to each doctor appointment and be sure that it is kept current.
Avoid Pharmacy Shopping:
With the rising cost of medications, many seniors choose to shop for the cheapest price without realizing the benefits of staying with one pharmacy. Poly-pharmacy, the “technical” name for pharmacy shopping, is often a source of confusion and drug interactions. The patient frequently overlooks the pharmacist as someone who can be of tremendous help to them. Pharmacists can often spot drug interactions, possible problems, and can possibly recommend OTC medications that can safely be taken with prescription medicines. Include the pharmacist’s information on the medication list that you provide toe ach doctor. When doctors call in a prescription, make sure that they use the same pharmacy each time.
Throw away Outdated Medicines:
Some people prefer to keep medications longer to save money on prescription costs. Don’t. Some medicines degrade over time with exposure to light and heat. Plus, you may need a different medicine the next time. If you rely on medications you have at home instead of advice from your physician, you could be headed for trouble. Be sure to call your physician before using medication that you have at home.
A special word about antibiotics: These are meant to be taken in their entirety when they are prescribed. Saving some for the next infection may cause serious health problems. Bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics and need even stronger medication the next time. Plus, for the second infection, a different class of antibiotics may be used in order to prevent resistance build-up.
Watch for Side Effects:
Seniors especially can be sensitive to new medications. Ask your doctor about possible side effects of the medication and how it may react with other medicines that you are currently taking. Most pharmacies hand out leaflets with information about drug side effects and when to contact the doctor. Read these leaflets and keep them in a safe place for future reference, especially if you have to take the medicine long-term. Caregivers need to be aware of how to cross-reference these and hand-carry them to the doctor if necessary to be sure that the right medication is being prescribed.
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