As we age, certain medications may be prescribed by the physician to obtain healthy lab values (blood pressure, cholesterol, sugar, etc). During the aging process, other medications may be added to your daily routine until the amount of prescription medications needed to maintain health may become overwhelming and even confusing. Managing your medications properly is a big step in acquiring the optimum results from your prescriptions and preventing new health problems.
Study the pill bottle carefully. The outside of the pill bottle should describe what the pill looks like. A generic version may come under a different name or shape than the brand name. Check that you've received the right prescription and don't be afraid to ask your pharmacist if you're not sure. It's important to follow the label instructions. Ignoring time lines and instructions printed on the label may alter the effect of the medication. Some people like to take all their pills at one time to get it over with, but mixing the wrong medications can be risky.
It is important to have all of your medications reviewed by one physician periodically. As we age, medications interact differently and may cause new side effects. Any symptoms you are experiencing could easily be a new reaction to an old medication or a reaction to a combination of medications. Do not wait to consult your doctor. If you begin to exhibit unusual behavior, it may be a sign of infection or negative medication interactions requiring a physician appointment for potential changes in your prescriptions. Be aware of the dangers of stopping your medications and taking alternative medications in their place without physician direction. Even herbal remedies and oils can have toxic side effects.
If you take a number of medications in one day, there are tools to help you keep track. There are a variety of pill boxes available that allow you to organize pills by day or meal. There is even a simple to use device available that can disburse your medications monthly at the appropriate times. See your pharmacist or health care provider for details. If you don't have other items available, using a chart may be a helpful tool. Make a block on a piece of paper for each pill you need to take, indicate in the block when the pill should be taken (breakfast, lunch, supper). Tape each of your pills in the correct corresponding block and use it to remind you when each medication should be taken and what it's suppose to look like.
Keep your prescriptions up to date and do not use expired meds. Proper storage as prescribed is important, too. Time and other factors can alter the chemicals in the medications with negative results. Keep a list of medications with you at all times in case of an emergency visit to the hospital. Your list should include prescribed medications, alternative meds, vitamins and supplements. Include the doses and frequency taken. Never lend your medications to anyone. While your intent is just to help someone out, there could be dangerous results.
"Sensible Seniors" is a monthly column for and about older adults. The information in "Sensible Seniors" is provided by the staff of Mountain View: A Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Coal Twp., PA.