Healthier Living in 2008: Tips For Medication

• Past it's expiration date (adverse drug reactions is the 5th leading cause of DEATH in the USA)
• Out of its original packaging and you can't quite remember what it is for
• Partially used prescriptions for conditions in which the medication is no longer needed
• Prescriptions not written for you or a family member residing in your household.

• Complete your antibiotic regimen even if you are feeling better. This will prevent the bacteria from becoming antibiotic resistant
• Read the package insert when you pickup your prescriptions. You'd be surprised at what new information may be included, especially if you have been taking the drug for awhile!
• Be very careful about taking OTC (over the counter) drugs in combination with ANY other medicines. Again, read the package insert.
• ALWAYS Take the correct dose. Even, Tylenol can be lethal in overdoses.
• Fill all your prescriptions at the same pharmacy. Their computers can usually pickup on dangerous drug combinations.
• Use the samples given to you by your physician before filling an expensive prescription-in the event you are unable to tolerate the drug or have a reaction to the medication. Ask the pharmacy to HOLD the written prescription so it won't get lost. Then a simple phone call is all that is needed to fill it.
• Use your pharmacist as a resource-ask them before purchasing OTC medications, about side effects, etc. They are a wealth of information regarding your prescription health.

By Diana from Prospect, KY

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