What you can do to assist with medications
1. Make a list.
- Name, dosage, frequency, form (pill, liquid, etc.), color, generic substitutes
- Include when each medication was started and the prescribing doctors' contact information.
- Include vitamins, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements.
- Keep the list up-to-date with each change in prescription or regimen.
2. Why is it needed?
- What does it do? How does it work? Why is it prescribed?
- Are tests needed to see if the drug is working?
3. How should it be taken?
- Is it taken with food? Without?
- What do you do if a dose is missed?
- Does it need refrigeration? Does it get refilled?
Read and save all written information.
4. List and understand possible interactions.
- Interactions can go beyond what is stated on the patient information sheet.
- Don't forget to confirm possible interactions with over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements.
- Find out if certain foods, alcohol, or caffeine should be avoided.
5. Ensure the medication is taken exactly as instructed.
- Be sure the person can identify each drug and its dose.
- Use a daily or weekly organizer, or set up an automatic dispenser that will sound alarms when it is time to take the drug.
- Encourage the person not to take drugs in the dark.
- Consider administering the medications yourself.
6. Monitor the medications
- Check the pills often to see if they are being taken properly. Count them.
- Watch closely for side effects.
- Ask if the medication makes the person feel better (or worse).
- Monitor refills, and consider using a mail order service with automatic shipping.
If you would like more information, or to receive some additional tools in this important area, please feel free to contact us.
