Guidelines to follow when on medication
You have the right to know what prescriptions are being prescribed for you, as well as the obligation to know what medications are being recommended for you. The more you understand about your medications and how they operate, the easier it will be to keep your symptoms under control. In designing, revising, and adhering to an appropriate medication plan, you and your doctor are partners. Make sure you and your doctor are on the same page when it comes to treatment goals. Discuss your expectations from medications so you can determine if your treatment strategy is effective. A few medication guidelines include:
Take your prescriptions at the same time(s) every day, just as directed. Do not stop taking or change your prescriptions without first consulting your physician. Continue to take your prescriptions even if you are feeling well. It’s possible that stopping some medications will be hazardous.
Do not miss a dose of your medication. If you have questions about your medication or how it is functioning, talk to your doctor.
To save money, do not reduce your medicine dosage. To receive the full advantages, you must take the complete dosage. Discuss strategies to lower the cost of your drugs with your health care practitioner.
Make it a habit to take your meds on a regular basis. Consider obtaining a pill box with days of the week marked on it if you’re worried about forgetting when to take your pills or missing one.
Before preparing or taking drugs, wash your hands.
Do not put off filling your medications until you are fully out of them. At least one week before you’re due to run out, call the drugstore or doctor’s office.
Check liquid meds on a regular basis. If they’ve turned a different colour or produced crystals, toss them out and replace them.
Do not take any over-the-counter medications or herbal remedies without first consulting your doctor.
Keep your prescriptions with you when you travel so you can take them on time. If you’re going on a longer trip, bring an extra week’s worth of drugs as well as copies of your prescriptions in case you need a refill.
Keeping a medication calendar or log book may assist you in remembering to take your medicines.
Please take your time. Before taking any medications, double-check the name and dosage.
If you have any allergies, consult your doctor before taking any prescription. Tell your doctor about any other prescriptions you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Know the names of your drugs (including generic and brand names), why they’re prescribed, and how much you’re supposed to take. Keep a list of your prescriptions with you at all times.
Know what to expect from your meds in terms of adverse effects. If you have any negative side effects, contact your doctor.