When you are not feeling well, you may reach for some type of medicine like aspirin for a fever. When taking medication, there are things you can do to ensure you are using them safely. All medications have benefits, but they also have potential risks. Here are some ways you can understand the benefits and risks:
1. Keep a list of all medications you take. Include maintenance medications, medications taken only when needed, over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements, and herbal remedies. Take this list with you when you visit your doctor or a specialist. Keep a list in your purse or wallet in case of an emergency.
2. Use one primary pharmacy. If you use mutliple pharmacies make sure that each knows what medicines you are on. The pharmacist can help you look for potential interactions.
3. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any allergic reactions or severe side effects you may have with a particular medication.
4. Take the time to read labels carefully and follow the directions.
5. Make sure you understand exactly how you should take each medication.
6. Don't take someone elses medicine or take medication that is past its expiration date.
7. Use antibiotics wisely and take them until completed even if you are feeling better. (If you have a sore throat or lung congestion, these may be due to a virus which an antibiotic will not help.)
8. Store medications properly. Some medications must be refrigerated. Keep all medications in a cool, dry location, which means the bathroom is not the best place to keep them.
9. Do not over use Tylenol (Acetaminophen). I recommend only using Tylenol to break a fever. If the fever has not broken in 12 hours you need to seek medical advice. A recent study showed that nearly 4 out of 10 adults who took the maximum dose of acetaminophen for eight days had lab tests suggesting possible harmful liver effects.
"The journey of life is taken one step at a time... none of them should be painful." G.M. Barclay, DPM, AACFAS
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