Drug Safety Tips

Combining drugs with supplements, other drugs and alcohol can be very dangerous. It is important for one to understand the side affects and warnings of each drug and supplement being used. Before getting a prescription, make sure to inform the intake staff and the doctor about the other supplements, prescriptions and alcohol use.

Tips for Drug Safety

Create a list of supplements and drugs: An easy method to make sure doctors know what prescriptions, over the counter medications and supplements are being taken is to make a list prior to each office visit. Keep a quick list on the refrigerator to take to the emergency room or to give EMS teams in the event of an ambulance visit to the home. It is also important for people to keep an updated list of medications and supplements on them. Type the list and reduce to very small font; print; and fold to place behind the identification section of one's wallet. Not only will this wallet list help in the event of emergencies, but it can be handy if the list is forgotten for a routine office visit.

Talk to pharmacist when receiving prescriptions: Most pharmacies have a consultation area. Whenever receiving a new prescription make sure to talk the person in charge of the consultation area about the other supplements and over the counter medications being currently taken. In addition, review side affects and warnings of the prescription. Ask the consultation person if there is anything in particular that needs to be known about the new prescription.

Read the information sheets provided with prescriptions: Make sure to take time to read the information sheets that are provided with prescriptions. Even if the prescription is not a new medication, reading the information sheets will give updated information since the prescription was last taken. If any questions arise consult the pharmacy or doctor's office where the prescription obtained.

Learn how products interact before taking. -- Picture provided by freepixels.com

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