Don’t fall victim to medication errors

Medication errors can be deadly. That is one reason why you should make sure that you know about what medications you are taking, why you are taking them and the prescribing information about each one. When you are involved in your health care in that way, you might be able to minimize the risk of being affected by a medication error.

When you seek out medical care, you should always bring a list of what medications you are taking. This can serve to let the medical professional see you now know what medications can be used to treat your current condition. Knowing the medications you are taking can help the doctor to avoid prescribing something that will react to another medication.

If you are prescribed medications, pay attention to the appearance of the pills. When you go for a refill, make sure that the pills you are prescribed look the same as the medication you got in previous fills.

You should also make sure that you understand the method for taking your pills. Some pills shouldn’t be chewed because they are time-released medications. Chewing them could lead to an overdose or to your body not absorbing them properly.

If you go into the hospital or get medications given to you at a facility, ask questions about what you are being given. If the medication is said to be one that you are used to taking, make sure it looks the same. If it doesn’t ask why. The more questions you ask, the less likely you are to fall victim to a deadly medication error.

Source: Mayo Clinic, “Medication errors are preventable. Your best defense is asking questions and being informed about the medications you take.,” accessed Sep. 02, 2016