It is essential to take medication as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist. However, even the most diligent individuals can make medication mistakes unknowingly. Below are four medication mistakes you may be making:.
1. Skipping Medication
Skipping medication is a common medication mistake that can have severe consequences. Whether it’s due to forgetfulness, a busy schedule or disinterest, skipping medication can lead to serious health risks.
Forgetting to take prescribed medication may result in under-dosing of medicine which can impact effective treatment.
To avoid skipping medication, try setting reminders on your phone or on a physical calendar. You can also consider pre-packing your medication into daily doses to make it easier to remember to take your medication daily.
2. Not Completing the Full Course of Medication
Stopping medication early before completing the full course of medication is another medication mistake that can lead to medication-resistant infections and illnesses.
Not completing a prescribed course of medication, such as antibiotics, allows bacteria to survive and multiply, making the infection harder to treat in the future.
If you are having trouble completing your medication course, speak with your doctor about your concerns and reasons for stopping early, as alternative options may be available.
It’s also essential to remember that stopping medication early can have serious health consequences.
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3. Not Reading the Medication Instructions
Reading medication instructions seem simple enough, but a surprisingly high number of individuals do not read instructions. Not following the instructions on your medication label can lead to serious medication mistakes and reaction to medicine.
It’s essential to read the label instructions and follow them explicitly. Additionally, make sure to seek clarification from your pharmacist or doctor if you have questions about the medication instructions.
4. Not Knowing Potential Side Effects of Medication
Medication can have side effects ranging from mild to severe. It’s important to know the potential side effects of your medication and how to deal with them properly.
Not being aware of the side effects of your medication can lead to health issues, such as allergic reactions, overdose, or an adverse reaction to medicine.
If you experience any side effects, it is essential to contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately. They can provide guidance on how to manage and minimize any side effects.
Conclusion
Medication mistakes can happen to anyone but being aware of the medication mistakes you may be making and taking steps to rectify them can safeguard your health.
Always ensure to follow the medication instructions provided and keep your doctor informed of any changes in medication use.
