HOME SAFETY
What's This Medication For?
Many Americans take prescription medication on a daily basis. One of the surprising things first responders find is that many patients fail to mention what medications they're taking.
Taking a pill for high blood pressure does not mean you no longer have high blood pressure. It means your pressure is controlled. It's still important to tell first responders medications you take as it may be related or may affect how we choose to assist you.
First responders regularly assist patients who have adverse reactions to medicines. The following tips will help prevent some medication reactions that can affect your health.
- Take exactly the recommended amount - not more or less- for the prescribed amount of time. Accidental overdoses occur on a regular basis. Other times not enough medicine is taken. Risking an immunity to build up or an illness to weaken initially, only to grow back stronger, because a patient stopped taking the medication too early.
- Many medications become more or less effective when taken in combination with other prescriptions. For this reason, you should ensure your doctor knows any and all medications you take on a regular basis.
- Ask your Doctor or pharmacist about side effects before beginning a new prescription. Some side effects, though mild and normal for people taking a specific drug, can be startling if they are unexpected. Other times certain side effects - even if mild - require immediate medical attention before the effects grow worse.
Remember, communication and compliance to medication directions is the key to managing health concerns. Don't be afraid to ask again if you're not 100% sure you understand the directions prescribed.
© 2008 Good News Tucson™
