Medication Safety, Adult

Is this the brand name or the generic name? "Is there a generic for this drug?"

Make sure you know why you are taking the drug. Ask the doctor, "What does this drug treat?"

Make sure you know the right dose and when you should take the drug. Ask the doctor, "How much should I take? When do I need to take this drug? " �

Ask your doctor, "How long will it take for the drug to start working and how will I know if it is working?"

Make sure you know how long you will need this drug. Ask your doctor, "How long will I need to take this drug?"

Ask your doctor, "Are there foods, drinks, other drugs, or activities I should avoid while taking the drug?"

Ask your doctor, "What side effects should I watch for?"

Make sure you look at any color and markings on the drug. This can help you make sure you have the right drug if you need refills. Ask at the pharmacy if the drugs look different after a refill.

Keep your drugs in the containers they came in. Do not mix drugs in the same container.

Take Your Drugs Safely � �

Always read the label on the container. Do this before you take a drug to be sure you have the right one.
Check with your doctor before you crush, chew, or break any pills or capsules.
If you are taking a liquid drug, make sure to use the measuring device that came with the drug or one from the pharmacy. Using household spoons or cups could cause an error in the amount of drug you are taking. Household utensils are not accurate.
Some drugs need blood testing to be sure the drug is at the right dose. If you take this type of drug, talk with your doctor about when you should have your blood tested.
If you are in the hospital, make sure anyone who is giving you drugs checks your ID band first. This will keep you from getting someone elses drugs.
Take drugs only as directed.

Store All Drugs Safely � �

Keep drugs out of the reach of children and pets. A locked cabinet is the safest place to store drugs.
Be sure visitors keep drugs away from children. Watch out for drugs left in purses and on bedside tables.
Keep drugs that come in tubes, like cream or ointment, away from other products like toothpaste. This can help avoid a serious mistake.
Store drugs away from direct sunlight. Do not store drugs in places where there is lots of humidity like in a bathroom. The drugs may be less effective.

What are the causes?

You may be harmed if you: � �

Take a drug at the wrong time
Take too much or not enough of a drug
Take the wrong drug
Have more than one prescription for the same kind of drug
Take a drug the wrong way

When do I need to call the doctor?

Signs of a very bad reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Go to the ER right away.
If you feel you are having side effects from a drug. In the U.S., you may also call the Food and Drug Administration at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you may also call Health Canadas Vigilance Program at 1-866-234-2345.
If you have started taking a new drug and notice changes in the way you feel like feeling dizzy or confused
If you have questions about any of the drugs you take. Talk with your doctor about your care each time you visit.
Health problem is not better or you are feeling worse

Helpful tips

Make sure all of your doctors know about every drug you are taking. Give them the list of your drugs. Ask if any new drugs will interact with your current drugs.
Let all doctors know about any drug allergies or other allergies you have.
If you have a very bad allergy, wear an allergy ID at all times.
Never share your drugs. Never take anyone elses drugs.
Get rid of any drug that is no longer needed.
Most drugs may be thrown away in household trash after mixing with coffee grounds or kitty litter and sealing in a plastic bag.
Check with your pharmacy to learn about how to get rid of unused drugs.
In Canada, take any unused drugs to the pharmacy. Also, visit http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/med/disposal-defaire-eng.php#th to learn about the right way to get rid of unused drugs.
Read the drug package insert for more details.
When in doubt, ask questions before taking any drug.

Teach Back: Helping You Understand

The Teach Back Method helps you understand the information we are giving you. The idea is simple. After talking with the staff, tell them in your own words what you were just told. This helps to make sure the staff has covered each thing clearly. It also helps to explain things that may have been a bit confusing. Before going home, make sure you are able to do these: � �

I can tell you about my condition.
I can tell you what drugs I am taking and why I am taking them.
I can tell you how I will take my drugs and how I will store them safely.
I can tell you what I will do if I think I am having any side effects from my drugs.

Where can I learn more?

National Council on Patient Education and Information � �
http://www.talkaboutrx.org/assocdocs/TASK/489/safe_storage_BW.pdf � �
The Joint Commission � �
http://www.jointcommission.org/assets/1/18/speakup_brochure_meds.pdf � �

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer

This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. � �

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