Health New England | Health Matters | Wellness Guide 2019

Health Matters ∞ 25 5 TIPS for Medication Safety 1 2 3 4 5 When you go to your doctor's office, the pharmacy or the hospital, bring a list or a bag with all your medicines. When you go to the pharmacy, make sure your medicine is what the doctor ordered. Ask how to use the medicine correctly. Ask about possible side effects. Source: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Ask questions about your medicines. Take Medications the Right Way If you take medication, it’s im- portant to take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has direct- ed. Missing doses, taking too much or too little, or stopping cold turkey can be dangerous. Keep it simple. Work with your doctor so you’re only taking medications you really need. And opt for those that call for one dose per day, not multiple doses, if possible. Go on the clock. Take your pills at the same time every day. Try incorporating it into an existing habit, such as brushing your teeth or eating breakfast. Make it easy to remember. Write yourself a sticky note. Set an alarm on your phone. Make a recurring calendar event. There are dozens of ways to keep your meds top of mind. Get organized. Try a pillbox with a compartment for each day of the week. Another bonus: if you often forget whether you’ve taken your meds already, a glance at the box will tell you right away. Sources: American Heart Association; National Council on Patient Information and Education; U.S. Food and Drug Administration MEDICATION SAFETY