Taking medications has become a part of our daily life. Women, in particular, take medications more often than men due to various reasons like menstrual cycles, pregnancy, contraceptives, or other health issues.
Nonetheless, the intake of medications is not always correct and can sometimes lead to severe health consequences. Here’s a list of 30 typical blunders that females commit while taking medications.
1. Self-Diagnosing
One of the biggest blunders that women commit while taking medications is self-diagnosing. They rely on the internet to diagnose health conditions and symptoms, leading them to consume the wrong medications for their conditions.
2. Skipping Dosages
Skipping doses can cause the effectiveness of the medication to decrease. It can also lead to drug-resistant bacteria and viruses.
3. Not Finishing the Prescribed Dosage
Women often get better and stop taking the medication prescribed, without completing the entire course of medication. This can lead to prolonged illnesses, drug resistance, and recurrence of infections.
4. Taking Medications Without Prescription
Many women consume medication without a doctor’s prescription, which can lead to severe health consequences.
5. Not Reading the Prescription Information
Medications come with prescription information that outlines the dosage, timing, and side effects. Not reading the prescription information can lead to incorrect dosages and other side effects.
6. Not Consulting a Doctor Before Consuming OTC Medications
Over-the-counter medications can have side effects when taken in combination with other drugs. Consulting a doctor before taking an OTC drug is essential to prevent potential health risks.
7. Not Taking Medications as Instructed
Not following the instructions on the prescription can lead to adverse side effects and render the medication ineffective.
8. Taking Medications on an Empty Stomach
Medications must be taken with food or as instructed on the prescribed prescription. Taking medications on an empty stomach can lead to nausea, vomiting, and other side effects.
9. Mixing Medications without Consultation
Women often mix medications without consulting their doctor, which can be dangerous. Such mixing can lead to dizziness, drowsiness, and other side effects.
10. Not Taking Antibiotics As Prescribed
Antibiotics must be taken as prescribed, and the entire course must be completed. Not completing the course can lead to resistant bacteria and increased health problems.
11. Not Mentioning Allergies to the Doctor
Women must always mention any allergies they have to their doctor before consuming any medication. Failure to do so can lead to severe allergic reactions.
12. Ignoring Medication Interactions
Medications can interact with one another, causing severe side effects. Women must inform the doctor about all the medications they are taking to prevent such interactions.
13. Combining Medications with Alcohol
Consuming medication with alcohol can lead to unpredictable side effects on the body. Women must avoid drinking alcohol when taking medications.
14. Taking Medication for A Longer Time Than Prescribed
Women must not continue taking prescribed medication beyond the prescribed time, as it can lead to side effects and other complications.
15. Taking Medications On An Irregular Basis
Medications must be consumed on a regular basis. An irregular consumption schedule can decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
16. Taking Medications Intermittently
Taking medications intermittently can lead to the medication’s ineffectiveness, drug resistance, and other health complications.
17. Not Storing Medications Properly
Medications must be stored in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight and the reach of children. Failure to store medication correctly can lead to deterioration of the medication.
18. Mixing Herbal Supplements with Conventional Medications
Herbal supplements can have negative interactions with conventional medications and can lead to health risks. It’s essential to consult a doctor before combining herbal supplements with conventional medications.
19. Not Careful with Pregnancy-Related Medications
Women must be cautious when consuming medications during pregnancy, and only medication, as prescribed by a doctor, must be consumed.
20. Not Worrying About Side Effects
Women must inform their doctor if they experience any side effects after consuming medication. Ignoring side effects can lead to severe health consequences.
21. Discontinuing Medications Without Consultation
Discontinuing medication without consulting the doctor can lead to a recurrence of illnesses, drug resistance bacteria, and other health complications.
22. Consuming Medications That Have Expired
Medications that have expired must not be consumed. They can lead to adverse side effects and other health consequences.
23. Not Taking Medication at the Right Time
Medications must be taken at the right time to ensure that their effectiveness is not reduced.
24. Not Consulting a Doctor Before Changing Medications
Women must consult a doctor before changing medication, even if the change is for a similar medical condition.
25. Taking Medications in Wrong Dosages
Taking medications in the wrong dosages can lead to drug-resistant bacteria, illnesses, and other complications.
26. Taking Medications Persistently Without Relief
Women must consult the doctor if they don’t experience relief even after consuming medication for a prolonged time.
27. Consuming the Wrong Medications
Consuming the wrong medication can lead to a recurrence of illness, drug-resistant bacteria, and other health consequences.
28. Sharing Medications with Others
Sharing medications with others can lead to severe health risks. Medications must not be passed on to others without a doctor’s prescription.
29. Not Informing the Doctor About Supplements
Women must inform their doctor if they take any supplements, as they can have negative interactions with conventional medications.
30. Not Double-Checking Medications Before Consumption
Women must double-check the medication before consumption to ensure that they are consuming the right medication and dosage.