Medication Mistakes to Watch For

First of all, people 65 and over, take more medications than any other age group

The number of Medication Mistakes is no surprise. In fact, the FDA reports, over 29% of all prescription medications purchased by seniors.   Also, more than 38%t of over the counter the counter pills ans supplements. Estimates are that as many as 85% percent of seniors use either natural remedies as well as vitamin supplements.

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Interactions between multiple Medication

Drug interactions are especially risky with elderly men and women

Health care professionals will tell you, “seniors take an average of 4-6 pills every day”. However, many  physicians aren’t aware of all medications a senior is taking.  Hence,  there is a risk for harmful drug interactions.

First,  make a list of all medications that are being take.  For example, all prescriptions, vitamins and herbal remedies that are being taken.  Second,  write the name and phone number of the  physician who prescribed the pills. To illustrate, physicians may not realize how many other doctors have prescribed medication to their joint patients. Take this list to each doctor appointment and be sure that it is kept current.

Stay away from different Pharmacy Shopping

First, medications costs have skyrocketed.  In fact, a growing number of seniors choose to shop for the cheapest price.  However, most are unaware of the benefits of using just one pharmacy.

Poly-pharmacy, the “technical” name for pharmacy shopping, is often a source of confusion and drug interactions.

Men and women often overlook the pharmacist as a tremendous help. Pharmacists are able to  notice possible negative drug interactions.  Another example,  possible problems caused by OTC medications.  Some can be safely taken with prescription meds. Finally, always try to include the pharmacist’s information on the medication list.  Give the list to your health care provider.  When the doctor calls in a prescription, make certain the same pharmacy each time.

Throw Away All of the Outdated Medicines

Never have a pill box filled with outdated meds. Many Americans will keep prescription medications longer that the expiration date.  Again, to save money on prescription pills. Don’t ever do that. Many modern pills will degrade over time In addition, they can be negatively effective with exposure to light and moisture. Furthermore, you may need a different medicine in the future. Never rely on medications you have at home instead of advice from your physician.  To sum up,  you maybe headed for health issues. Be sure to call your physician before using medication that you have at home.

Pay Some special concerns with the dates on antibiotics

First, there are very special requirements for antibiotics.  These pills need to be taken in their entirety.  Many people will try to save some for the next infection.  Again, never do this as it may cause future health issues. Some of the new stains of 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.  Caregivers know this. 

Watch for Possible Medication Mistakes Side Effects

Elderly People are more sensitive to new medications in their pill boxes. Ask the health care professional about negative side effects of the particular medication.  Also, ask how it may react with other medicines that are being taken. Modern pharmacies will hand out leaflets with information about drug side effects.  In addition, directions on when to contact the doctor. First, read all of these informative leaflets.  Second, keep them safe for future reference.  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.