Tips for Using Medications Wisely

      Take along your brown bag the next time you visit the doctor.  And what should you put in that bag?  All the medications you're taking, including vitamins, dietary supplements, and over-the-counter drugs.  Dr. Keith Hannay of Floyd Medical Center shared the following with the Rome Gold Flames at a recent meeting:   

     Know What Medications You Take – Keep a complete list of your medicines.  For each drug, include its strength, how many and how often you take the medication, and why you are using it.  Remember to include all nonprescription drugs and any herbs, supplements, or vitamins you are taking.

     Review Your Medications with Your Healthcare Provider – Review your medication list regularly with your doctor and pharmacist.  An easy way is to take your brown bag and the list of medications you’ve made.  Be sure to inform your primary-care doctor and pharmacist whenever you start or stop taking any medicine, even if another doctor has told you to start or stop it.

     Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication, including herbal supplements and nonprescription drugs such as cold medicine. Try to use the same pharmacy to fill all of your prescriptions.

     Take Your Medicines Regularly – Take your medicines regularly, as prescribed by your doctor.  If you are having trouble remembering to take your medicines, consider using a pillbox to help remind you.  You can get a seven-day pillbox at your local pharmacy.  At the beginning of each week, put your medications in a pillbox for each day.

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