It’s not unusual to make a mistake when you take your medication, especially if you take more than one and also have several health conditions.
But an incorrect dose, the wrong drug, or misunderstanding the prescription label can lead to major medication mistakes.
And although you might shrug it off, medication errors can land you in the emergency room with serious complications, and even result in death in some cases.
Here are 7 common medication mistakes you should avoid to ensure your health and safety:
1. Skipping doses or taking too many
Forgetting to take your medication or doubling up on doses if you miss one.
What to do: Set a reminder or use a pill organizer. If you miss a dose, follow the instructions on the label or consult your doctor or pharmacist on how to proceed.
2. Not following dosage instructions
Taking medication at the wrong time or in incorrect amounts.
What to do: Always follow the prescribed dosage and schedule. If you’re unsure about anything, ask your healthcare provider for clarification.
3. Mixing medications without consulting a professional
Combining different medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, or herbal remedies, without checking for interactions.
What to do: Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications and supplements you’re taking to avoid harmful interactions.
4. Crushing or splitting pills without permission
Crushing or splitting pills that aren’t designed to be altered, which can change how they work.
What to do: Only crush or split medications if your doctor or pharmacist has confirmed it’s safe. Some medications need to be taken whole for proper effectiveness.
5. Not reading labels properly
Overlooking important instructions on medication labels, like whether to take the medication with food or on an empty stomach.
What to do: Always read the labels carefully for any special instructions and warnings.
6. Taking medication past its expiry date
Using expired medications, which may not be effective or could potentially be harmful.
What to do: Regularly check the expiration dates and safely dispose of any expired medications.
7. Not storing medications correctly
Storing medications in humid or hot places, like the bathroom or kitchen, which can affect their effectiveness.
What to do: Store medications in a cool, dry place, and follow the specific storage instructions on the label.
By being mindful of these common medication mistakes, you can avoid potential health risks and ensure your medications work as intended.
