Senior health minute | Medication safety

It’s easy to forget to take your medicine, especially when you take a lot of pills, but to get the best results from medicines, always take them as directed.

Follow these tips to make sure you’re safely taking your medications:

• Make sure you understand how, when, and for how long your medication should be taken
• Know about the side effects of the medications, any drug interactions to avoid, what to do if you miss a dose, and how to store the medicine.
• Have questions about your medication? Contact your pharmacist with any questions or concerns about your medications. Ask for clarification, if necessary.
• Take the exact dose prescribed to you.
• Follow the dosage schedule, keep a daily record of your medications, and check off each dose as you take it.
• If you’re prescribed a new medication, be sure to mention any other drugs you are taking. Include all over-the-counter drugs, herbs, vitamins, minerals, and other supplements.
• Tell your healthcare provider about any past drug reactions, such as rashes, indigestion, dizziness, or lack of appetite.
• Never take medication in the dark.
• Be sure to only take medications that are prescribed to you.
• Discard old medications properly.

For more information on Touro's Senior Care services and wellness tips on healthy aging, visit touro.com/seniorcare