Taking medications safely at home is important for staying healthy and avoiding complications. Follow these simple steps to manage your medications effectively:

1. Staying Organized

• Use a pill organizer to keep track of daily doses.
• Set alarms or reminders on your phone to take medications on time.
• Keep a medication list with names, dosages, and when to take them.
• If you have multiple prescriptions, ask your pharmacist about ways to simplify your routine.

2. Taking Medications Correctly

• Always follow the instructions on the label (e.g., with food, at bedtime, etc.).
• Use the correct measuring tools (e.g., a medication cup, not a kitchen spoon).
• Don’t split, crush, or mix pills unless your doctor or pharmacist says it’s okay.
• Take medications at the same time each day to help build a routine.
• If you miss a dose, check the instructions or ask your pharmacist what to do.

3. Avoiding Medication Mistakes

• Double-check the name and dose of your medication before taking it.
• Keep medications in their original bottles to prevent mix-ups.
• If you start a new medication, be aware of possible side effects like drowsiness or dizziness.
• If a pill looks different than usual, ask your pharmacist before taking it.
• Never take someone else’s medication, even if you have similar symptoms.

4. Storing Medications Safely

• Store medications in a cool, dry place (avoid the bathroom, where humidity can damage pills).
• Keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
• Some medications, like insulin or certain antibiotics, need to be refrigerated—check the label.
• If you use a weekly pill organizer, store it away from direct sunlight and heat.

5. Proper Medication Disposal

• Check the label or ask a pharmacist about how to safely dispose of expired medications.
• Many pharmacies offer medication take-back programs—this is the safest way to get rid of old prescriptions.
• If a take-back program isn’t available, mix pills with coffee grounds or cat litter before throwing them away (this makes them less appealing to kids and pets).
• Never flush medications unless the label specifically says it’s safe to do so.

6. Understanding Medication Interactions

• Be aware of foods and drinks that may interfere with medications (e.g., grapefruit juice can affect some prescriptions).
• Keep a list of all the medications, vitamins, and supplements you take and share it with your doctor.
• Some over-the-counter medications, like pain relievers or cold medicine, can interact with prescriptions—ask a pharmacist if you’re unsure.
• If you experience unexpected side effects, contact your doctor right away.

7. When to Call a Doctor or Pharmacist

• If you’re unsure about a dose or schedule.
• If you experience dizziness, confusion, allergic reactions, or unusual symptoms.
• If you accidentally miss multiple doses or take too much.
• If you need help managing multiple prescriptions.