Medication Guidelines

There are many different prescription and non-prescription medications used to treat medical conditions and symptoms. As you get older, the way some medications work in your body can change. The use of certain medications or combinations of medications and alcohol can cause side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness or low blood pressure. These side effects have been attributed to an increased risk of falling. Your doctor and pharmacist are the best sources of information about the medications that you take.

General Guidelines:

When talking to your doctor and pharmacist, tell him or her what prescription medications and over-the-counter medications you are currently taking. Please include vitamins and herbal medicines.

Review ALL your medications with your physician during each office visit. People frequently see more than one doctor, i.e. a specialist like a cardiologist as well as a primary physician. Have your doctor or pharmacist review your medications regularly to make sure you're not taking drugs you don't need anymore. This might prevent harmful drug interactions or taking duplicate medicines.

• Let the doctor know about any allergy or problem that you have had with medicines.
• Keep an up-to-date list of all the medicines you take, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products.
• If you are getting a refill, make sure that the medication looks familiar; if it does not, ask the pharmacist about it before taking it.
• If the drug is too difficult to swallow, ask if a liquid is available.
• Information and instructions are provided with every prescription drug. Read these carefully and follow the prescription instructions exactly or let your doctor know why you didn't.
• Know the benefits and side effects of a medication before taking it. If you experience any side effects, call your doctor.
• Don't take more or less than the recommended dose.
• Don't drink alcohol while taking medications.
• Follow the suggestions regarding eating and drinking certain foods while taking your medications.
• Never take medications prescribed for someone else.
• Ask your pharmacist about proper storage of medications. It's usually best not to store them in the bathroom medicine cabinet or in direct sunlight. Humidity, heat and light can affect medications' strength and safety.
• It is best to keep your medications in their original container. If you are taking multiple medications, pill boxes designed to help you organize your medications are an acceptable alternative.