Porter County Consumer & Family Science

According to the Harris Poll survey, almost half of patients (46 percent) are extremely or very concerned about adverse events when taking medicine as directed, and more than a third said they have decided not to take a medicine prescribed by their doctor because of that concern.  So - what can you do to protect your health and take your medications with confidence?  First, understand the risks.  It’s important to recognize that all medications carry the potential for risks.  That’s why our federal govenment established a regulatory agency more than a century ago to monitor drug safety.  New medications have to go through a strict approval process, and they only come to market if they’ve been deemed safe.  But all drugs carry some risks of interaction, overdosing, and abuse.  Even drugs you can purchase over-the-counter, without a prescription, can be risky if not used properly.

Talk to your doctor.  Express your concerns to your doctor.  When you receive a new presciption, ask your doctor what to expect:  how will it work?  What side effects should you look for?  When should you get in touch with your doctor if you have any problems?

Read labels.  Be sure to read and understand the label, which has been carefully written to explain how and when to take the medication and convey any risks.

Ask questions.  At the pharmacy, ask your pharmacist whether there are any interactions with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, or dietary supplements, that you should be aware of.

Follow directions.  Don’t just read the label - follow it!  Many consumers think taking more of a medicine, such as a pain killer or allergy pill, will help treat symptoms even faster or better.  This is often not the case and is too risky to try!

Report problems.  Contact your pharmacist or doctor at the first sign of trouble, and also report any side effects to the FDA (1-800-FDA-1088).