Staying on top of medications can be daunting. From side effects to food interactions, what do we really need know about what we are taking? As a pharmacist at Montefiore Health System, a busy New York City hospital, I provide care for a diverse population of patients. Everyone from the elderly man just discharged from the hospital with seven new medications, to the mom-to-be trying to navigate which cough syrup is safe to take — my team helps them make the most informed decisions.
Below are a few tips everyone can use to safely and effectively take medications, vitamins and supplements:
Ask about what and why: What is this drug? Why am I taking it? By asking what and why, you’ll become more familiar with the name of your medication and the reason it was prescribed. This is also a great way for your pharmacist to double-check that you’re getting the right medication and to prevent an error. I personally quiz my patients at each appointment — many drugs look alike, and knowing that you take “a little white pill” is not enough in case of an emergency.
[See: How to Help Aging Parents Manage Medications.]
Ask about the most common side effects. The patient information handouts that come with your medications list all associated side effects, but your pharmacist knows the most common ones and can better inform you on what to realistically expect. Your pharmacist can also tell you the best time of day to take your medications so they don’t interrupt your lifestyle, cause an upset stomach or make you tired. For example, some medications can cause insomnia, so taking them first thing in the morning will allow you to get a good night’s sleep. Patients with high blood pressure may benefit from taking certain blood pressure medicines at night for better blood pressure control, which reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Consider the cost. If you see a commercial for a drug on TV, chances are it’s a relatively new, brand-name medication — which is the most expensive. In my practice, I frequently use generic equivalent, which can save money at the pharmacy. There are a few instances when a generic medication should not be substituted for a brand, such as a blood thinner or thyroid medication, but most generic drugs are equally as effective as the original. Your insurance company can provide you with a list of medications they’ll cover. There are many drugs that work in different ways to treat the same condition, and if a generic is not available, there may be a preferred alternative on your insurance company’s list. Additionally, certain insurance companies offer discounts for mail-order services or three-month supplies, which is a great idea if you’re on a medication for long-term use.
[See: 5 Common Preventable Medical Errors.]
Request a demonstration. Pharmacists are naturals when it comes to patient education and can make sure you feel comfortable if you have to use a device such as an inhaler, blood pressure machine or blood sugar machine. Inhaler technique is very important if you have asthma or COPD, and your pharmacist can demonstrate good form to ensure that the medicine is delivered correctly. A blood pressure cuff that’s too loose may cause low readings, and a cuff that’s too tight could cause high readings. Ask your pharmacist to show you what’s “just right” so your numbers are accurate.
Drugs don’t work if you don’t take them. Almost 50 percent of adults in the U.S. don’t take their medications as prescribed by their provider. If you have trouble remembering to take your medications, a pill box may be a great way to get organized; or, try setting an alarm on your phone as a helpful reminder. Sometimes a twice-a-day or three-times-a-day drug can have a simpler once-a-day alternative. Be honest with your pharmacist or provider when they ask if you’re taking your medications. Sometimes there’s a good reason, such as an embarrassing side effect, as to why you may not be taking a drug. We may be able to prescribe an alternative that you tolerate better. We want to make sure the drugs you take are treating the conditions for which you take them, and the best way for us to evaluate this is by having you routinely take them.
[See: 8 Questions to Ask Your Pharmacist.]
BYOB: “Bring Your Own Bottles” to your appointments. This includes your prescriptions, vitamins, supplements and over-the-counter products. With your bottles at the appointment, your provider will know exactly what you’re taking, how you’re taking it and how those pills interact with each other. There’s an opportunity to evaluate your regimen and see if you need to make any changes. As a pharmacist, I check for expired medications or duplications, and coordinate with your providers so that everyone is on the same page. Once we finalize your regimen, we can help you create a wallet card or medication list for you to carry with you on the go.
Your pharmacist is happy to help organize your medications, vitamins and supplements. Please consider us part of your health care team.
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BYOB — and other Secrets from A Pharmacist originally appeared on usnews.com
