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Three seminars on Hilton Head Island last week hosted by state Rep. Richard Chalk and the South Carolina Pharmacy Association discussed prescription medication safety.
More than 7,000 people die annually due to errors in prescribing or administering medications, according to the nonprofit Institute of Medicine. More than a million others are hurt in some way because of medication errors.
"It's something that we generally don't think about," said association presenter Angela Bingham, "but it can be a major problem."
Each patient will have his or her own specific combination of medications, so communication with a doctor or pharmacist is key in avoiding any potential harmful mixes.
Below are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure safe prescription medication use:
Run down a checklist for each medication. What is the name of my medication? What is it used for? How often do I take it? Can I take it with food or milk? Where should I store it?
Keep things simple and organized. If possible, go to one pharmacy. Tell the pharmacist all the medications you are taking, including herbal and over-the-counter meds. Take medication as ordered or ask if no directions are given. Talk with the pharmacist before taking over-the-counter or herbal alternative supplements. Keep an updated list of medications and show to all doctors and pharmacists.
Keep in mind all medications. It's not just prescription meds. It's over-the-counter meds, herbal or alternative supplements, vitamins, creams and ointments, inhalers or patches. To ensure your safety, doctors and pharmacists need to know a full list of what you're taking.
Seniors are at a heightened risk for several reasons. People age 65 years and older take more medications than the rest of the population. Changes during aging can cause medications to affect a person differently.
Watch out for allergic reactions such as hives, itchiness, rashes or breathing difficulties and other adverse reactions, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, confusion or fatigue.
Watch for dangerous interactions. Some may not be so apparent, so be sure to know the ins and outs of your medication. A few examples:
Tylenol PM + pain reliever Darvocet = increased risk of liver problems
Cholesterol-lowering Lipi tor + grapefruit juice = increase liver and muscle problems
Sudafed + a patient with high blood pressure = higher blood pressure
Anti-blood clotter Coumadin + garlic = risk of bleeding
