Medication Safety

The recent voluntary withdrawal of Vioxx by Merck serves as a reminder that medications should not be taken lightly. All medications, prescribed or over-the-counter, as well as herbal remedies come with potential risks as well as benefits. Risks and benefits should be considered on an individual basis in light of personal health history. Take a few minutes to review these medication safety suggestions.

1. Provide your health care provider/providers with a complete list of all your medications, including herbals and food supplements
2. Read medication labels and follow dosage directions, unless instructed to do differently by your health care provider.
3. Ask for a consult with the pharmacist when starting a new medication. Read and follow all the little stickers added to the medication container.
4. Try to fill all prescriptions at the same pharmacy so the pharmacist can be alert for potential drug interactions.
5. Report unusual symptoms or side effects to your health care provider.
6. When admitted to the hospital take a list of all medications with you.
7. If you or a loved one have multiple medications, take an annual medication “inventory” with your health care provider.
8. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets.
9. Discard expired medications.
10. Never take someone else’s prescription.

Last updated: 2005-02-01