A set such as this is a good way to organize your medications
Managing your medication regimen can be a challenge. Do you have a system, or do you depend upon your memory to take your medications properly? Do you have difficulty opening the bottles? Do you store your medications in a “candy dish,” dumping multiple medications into one bowl and fishing out the appropriate medication at the scheduled time? Or do you store medications in shopping bags or shoeboxes? This article will provide some tips for managing your medications.
When starting a medication, make sure you are fully informed about what it is and how to take it. Here are some questions to ask when a medication is recommended or prescribed:
• What is this medication?
• Is there a generic available?
• What is it for?
• How should I take it? With a meal? On an empty stomach?
• What should I do if I miss a dose?
• How do I know it is working?
• What are the possible harmful effects?
• Does it interact with any other medication I am taking?
• When should I call you or come back?
• Are there over-the-counter medications I should avoid while taking this medication?
The person who prescribes your medication should be able to answer most of these questions; however, when prescribed a new medication you should be offered a consultation with a pharmacist. Take advantage of this session if you have any unanswered questions about your medication.
In general, generic medications cost much less than brand name and are just as effective. Many drug store pharmacies have low-cost generic medications available as low as $4 for a 30-day supply. An example available in San Francisco is Walgreen’s (https://webapp.walgreens.com).
Once you get your medications home, store them in a dry, cool cabinet away from direct sunlight. Avoid high moisture areas, such as the bathroom or kitchen.
Find a system for taking your medication that works for you. One good way to keep your medications straight is to use a medication set, as shown in the photo. Others prefer to write the medications and times on a calendar so then can mark them off as they are taken.
Keep a list of your medications on you at all times and a duplicate at home. AARP provides one you can download from URL. Include your allergies to medications and food.
Bring all your medication bottles in to a first medical visit with a new provider (doctor, physician assistant or nurse practitioner). Ask him or her how often you should bring all of your medicines in for review.
If you get prescriptions from more than one person, for example a doctor and a dentist, make sure he or she reviews your current medication list before prescribing. This will help prevent duplication of prescriptions and being given two medications that interact with each other.
Tips for caregivers
If you manage medications for another person who is unable to take medications independently, here are some additional tips.
• Designate one person responsible for communicating with the prescriber and keeping the medication list up to date.
• Give a current list to each caregiver or those who might accompany him or her to the hospital in an emergency.
• Set up phone, email, or text reminders if you are not present to give the medication.
• Talk with the prescriber about giving medications that will not be harmful if a dose is missed or if an extra is taken.
• Talk with the provider about prescribing forms of medication that require less monitoring. For example, some medications come in a topical patch that can be changed every few days or even weekly.
Home medication management can be difficult if multiple medications are required. Setting up a system, keeping a list of medications, and communicating with all prescribers will help avoid errors.
AARP Rx Snapshot Program
Provides individual and group materials for educating yourself on medication management. Includes medication list.
http://www.aarp.org/makeadifference/volunteer/create_the_good/rx_snapshot/
Part 3 Tips for managing your medications
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