Prescription drugs are effective, but it is important to know that no medication is completely safe. To reduce potential risks and get the most benefit from a drug, remember these important safety tips:
Prescription and over-the-counter Online Prescription are not always safe when taken together. Before taking any over-the-counter drug, ask your doctor or pharmacist if it can be taken with your current prescription drugs.
Always follow your doctor's instructions when taking prescribed drugs. Understand the prescription, why it is used and what to expect from treatment.
Ask questions if you have concerns about a drug. Always tell your doctor about any allergies you have, especially if you have an allergy to a specific drug.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if there are any foods that should be avoided when taking the drug. Some foods that may interact with certain drugs and reduce effectiveness of the drug or increase the risk of serious side effects. For example, grapefruit and grapefruit juice may cause problems when consumed with cholesterol-lowering drugs.
If you see more than one doctor, it is very important that both doctors know every prescription and over-the-counter drugs that you are taking, including vitamins and supplements.
Know the side effects that may occur. Read the information that comes with the prescription; it will list the side effects. Let your doctor know about any side effects you experience.
If you accidentally miss a dose, do not take two doses to make up for it. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have concerns.
Take all of the prescribed medication, even if you feel better.
If you take a drug for a chronic condition such as high blood pressure, do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor first.
Alcohol and street drugs do not mix with prescription drugs.
Never share prescription drugs with anyone.
Use a pill reminder case so you do not forget a dose.
Keep a written record of all prescriptions that you take, including name of drug, the dose and how often it is taken. Carry a copy with you in your wallet or purse so it is available in case of emergency.
Check expiration dates on prescription and over-the-counter drugs. If the drug has expired, do not use it.
Do not flush unused drugs down the toilet. Water treatment systems may not remove all traces of the drug. Instead, crush tablets, dissolve them in water and use cheap kitty litter to absorb the liquid. Place in a sealed container or bag before it throwing away.
These simple tips will help reduce the potential for problems when taking prescription drugs. Pay attention to how you feel. If you think you are experiencing side effects, or you do not feel better after taking all of the medication, contact your doctor. Be an active participant in your own health.