You trust your Maryland doctor and pharmacist to take proper care of you. That said, you also have to take an active role in improving your health. For instance, your pharmacist or physician may not do as much as he or she should in helping you avoid accidentally abusing your prescription, which can result in a number of health complications.
Take a few tips from the Mayo Clinic to better avoid accidental prescription drug abuse. The right info can keep you safe and healthy.
Keep in touch with your healthcare professionals
Even if you do not have an appointment, keep in touch with your physician and pharmacist. Let them know how you feel on the medication, and keep them updated on your current dosage.
Double-check your medication
Once your doctor writes you a prescription, repeat it to double-check that it is the right one. Do the same with your pharmacist. Ask if your prescription comes with a risk of addiction, and see what side effects you should expect. Share any over-the-counter medication and supplements you take with your healthcare professionals.
Read over the directions
Before you start taking a medication, read over the directions a couple of times. Note whether you can do things like take a half dosage, whether you should take your medication with food and whether you have ear drops or eye drops.
Only use your prescription
Maybe you feel your medication is not working and your friend is taking a different medication for a similar health issue. It is best to refrain from taking someone else’s medication, as you may have a different, or dangerous, reaction from the intended person.
This information is only intended to educate and should not be interpreted as legal advice.