April 1, 2021

Whereas medicine can treat illness and disease, make us feel better and help us live higher-quality lives, it can also be dangerous when used incorrectly. Here are some of the most common mistakes people make with medications and some tips on how to avoid them.

1. Taking your medication differently than prescribed.

“My blood pressure seemed fine today, so I took my morning dose but not the bedtime one.”

“I had ice cream with my dinner, so I took two of my diabetes pills.”  

I often encounter patients who adjust their own medication, such as taking more doses or fewer doses than prescribed or skipping their medication altogether. Making these kinds of changes without discussing them with your doctor or pharmacist could have serious consequences. The best way to avoid this mistake is by taking your medication exactly as it states on the bottle.

2. Taking someone else’s prescription.

This may not seem like a bad idea for something like pain or nausea; however, it is best to visit your prescriber if you feel like you need a prescription medication. They can help you determine if the medication is appropriate for your needs and is okay to take with your other prescriptions and health conditions. 

 3. Taking OTC medicines or supplements that interact with your medications.

If you take prescription medications, I always recommend checking with your pharmacist before taking any OTC medication. This will help you avoid potentially dangerous drug interactions or duplications.