Medication Management

Do you use:

-medications prescribed by your doctor?

-natural health products?

-over the counter medication? 

If so, you are like many other Canadians; and it is vital to know how to take your medications safely. Here is some advice to keep in mind:

1. Make sure the pharmacy label says why you are taking the prescription
-to know what each medication is for and how to take it properly

2. Create and maintain an up-to-date medication list
-this can help reduce the risk of polypharmacy

3 .Bring a medications list – or the medications themselves – to the doctor with you
-the more information your provider has, the more accurately they can pinpoint any potential adverse effects or drug interactions

4. Talk to the pharmacist and ask questions
-learn about the potential side effects, dosage, proper storage, and anything else that will help you take medications correctly

5. Know the side effect profile of your medications
-knowing the potential side effects and interactions can help you stay alert to any health changes that may occur in response to a new medication or combination of medications

6. Minimize the number of providers and pharmacists you use
-this adds another level of review to help ensure appropriate dosage and reduce the risk of adverse drugs effects and interactions