By Dr. Nora DeVoe, Ph.D.
Geriatric Care Manager

You and Your Medications:

10 Safety Tips

Did you know that drug misuse is one of the top problems that doctors see in senior adults? As we get older, our bodies change, affecting the way foods and medications are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted, creating a greater risk of drug interactions and side effects. Because of this, many seniors are sensitive to the effects of medications and require lower doses. Some medications should never be prescribed to seniors. Overmedication is not only costly, but some seniors may be taking drugs unnecessarily. Whether you are taking a prescription, over the counter (OTC) medication, vitamin or supplement, or using a cream, salve, holistic preparation, or herbal remedy, it is very important that you discuss them with your primary doctor and /or pharmacist and follow their instructions exactly to avoid dangerous reactions and side effects. The more medications you take daily, the easier it is to lose track of how many to take and when they should be taken.

Another frightening fact is that thirty-six percent of child accidental poisonings are from prescriptions from a grandparent’s medication. Be responsible. Dispose of medications in a safe manner. Avoid using wastebaskets where children and pets can find them and accidentally overdose. Flush unwanted medications down the toilet or turn them in to your pharmacy where available. Many prescriptions for seniors are lethal to children.

Here are some additional tips regarding your medications: Make sure all of your doctors and specialists communicate with each other on all medications and conditions; Make sure you understand how and when to take All of your medications; Select any over the counter products to treat only the symptoms you have; Make sure all medications are clearly labeled and in original containers; Never take medications in the dark; Know what your medications look like; Only take the amount prescribed for you; Never stop taking a medication just because you feel better; Develop a system for taking your medication such as a pre-poured container, a timer to remind you, including knowing when you are running low and need to re-order without missing a dose; Before traveling, discuss your medications and any time changes with your doctor and carry all medications with you instead of packing them in your suitcase.

It is always a good idea to review your medications with your doctor at least yearly to make sure you still need to take the medicine or possibly decrease your dosage. A good trigger for this is to review medications any time you have blood work or testing done. Remind your doctor; he or she will appreciate it.