Taking Medicines as Prescribed

Overview

Taking medicine as your doctor prescribes may improve your health and may prevent future problems. Not taking medicines properly could put your health or your life at risk.

Taking your medicines safely is especially important for those who take a lot of medicines. Taking a lot of pills increases your chances of having problems. If you take more than one medicine that works the same way, you could get too high a dose. And sometimes medicines work against each other.

Problems may be more likely if:

  • You see more than one doctor and don't tell each one about the medicines you take.
  • You use more than one drugstore. Unless you tell them, those pharmacists may not know all the medicines you take.
  • You're an older adult. As you age, your body slows down. Some medicines stay in your body longer.
  • One medicine gives you side effects, so you take another one to feel better.
  • You take herbs or vitamins without talking to your doctor or pharmacist first.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for help taking your medicine. Try to take each of your medicines at the same time each day. Keep a list of your medicines. To keep track of all your pills, try using a weekly medicine organizer.

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Information about Taking Medicines as Prescribed

Current as of: October 25, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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