Medication Safety Tips to Remember
By Brandi Goodman
Medication is necessary for many people. Despite this fact, so many still make unwise decisions with the pills they need to take. Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to medications and keeping yourself and those around you healthy and well.
Lock Them Up
Too many people leave their medicines in an easy-to-reach location. You may put them in your bathroom medicine cabinet, in a cupboard, or keep them by your bedside. If you live alone, this may not be much of a problem. If you live with others, however, then this could spell disaster. You want to have your medications locked up so no one else in the household may get to them. Children can mistake them as candy and teens and adults may want them for alternative uses.
Get a Pill Organizer
A pill organizer provides a great way to store your medication if you have multiple to take. You don't want to get mixed up and take the wrong ones at the wrong times, or take more than you're supposed to. This can be harmful to your health. Keeping your pills organized will ensure you're taking the right ones at the correct times. An organizer with days of the week listed and both a.m. and p.m. slots is best.
Continue Your Doctor-Prescribed Dose
There may be days in which you feel great and think you don't need your medicine. Failing to continue to take it as prescribed, however, can be extremely detrimental to your health. Stop taking it abruptly and it could cause your symptoms to return or make matters worse. You need to continue the dose your doctor prescribed for as long as they stated. If you truly feel you're getting better and don't need the dose, then that should be discussed with your physician first. They may want to wean you off a little at a time to see how your body handles it.
Lock Your Meds Day typically arrives around the third week of October. This day serves as a reminder for everyone to lock up their medications, keep it out of the reach of others, and make sure you're following all necessary safety protocols. It can be a danger to your health and the health of others if you don't make smart decisions regarding the medicine you take.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Meridian, Idaho.