What Seniors Need to Know About Drugs

* Never assume your healthcare provider knows what drugs you are taking if that person did not prescribe them;

* If a new drug is prescribed, ask the physician or nurse to explain any side effects the drug may produce;

* Let your physician know if a drug is not working or if you are experiencing side effects including fatigue, memory loss, confusion or digestive problems;

* If your drug regime is confusing to you, ask to have it simplified;

* Each time you have a doctor's appointment, take with you a complete list of drugs, both prescription and over-the-counter, as well as the doses and schedule for taking them;

* If you have all prescriptions filled at the same store, your pharmacist will know what you are taking;

* Regularly, talk with your physician or pharmacist about the drugs you are taking and if any can be eliminated;

* If you do not understand the instructions for taking a new drug, ask for clear and simple ones; and

* Ask your doctor or pharmacist before buying an over-the-counter drug.

Source: Dr. James Kvale, The University of Texas-Houston Medical School

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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E-Mail: tmcinfo@texmedctr.tmc.edu
URL: http://www.tmc.edu/tmcnews/07_01_00/page_12.html