The Importance of Taking Medications as Directed

Millions of people in the United States take prescription medications. With the increase in the amount of medication prescribed the possibility of problems occurring also increases.

When medications are not taken as prescribed they can cause many problems including an increase in side effects, failing to relieve symptoms, or even death.

Tips for safe medication administration:

• Take medicine exactly as directed and by the schedule your doctor instructs you
• Call your doctor immediately for any problems with your medicine
• Be sure you understand all instructions before you leave the doctor’s office—ask for written instructions for future reference
• Keep a record of all medicines you take including over-the counter medicines—carry a copy in your purse or wallet. Share the record with each doctor you see
• Discuss with your doctor the name of the medicine, how and when to take it and what is supposed to do. Also ask about any side effects to look for and whether the medicine will interact with any current medications you are taking
• If you are thinking about stopping a medication, always contact your doctor first.