Prescription Drugs

If you or someone you know is taking multiple medications on a daily basis, you understand how challenging it can sometimes be to always remember to take them as prescribed. Remembering to take one medication several times a day on schedule can be difficult enough, but when you’re taking two, three, or even more medications on a daily basis, taking them all according to doctor’s orders becomes more of a challenge.

In addition, the more medications you take, the more chance of dangerous drug interactions…which is why it’s so important to always carry an updated record of your current medications at all times. For those with extensive medical issues or medication lists, you may want to consider consolidating all medical information into one binder to make everything easy to find, especially in case of an emergency. Keep a master list of medications in the binder, and carry a copy.

Another important thing to be aware of is complications and drug interactions that can happen when combined with certain foods, alcohol, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and nutritional supplements. As each medication is different, it’s vitally important to let your doctor and pharmacist know what medications, OTC drugs, and any supplements you are taking, and in what doses. Be sure to talk to your doctor and your pharmacist before you begin taking any new drugs and to read all warnings included with your medications. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

According to the FDA (www.fda.gov) the following foods and beverages can cause harmful side-effects, drug interactions, or cause medications to be less effective. When taking any prescription medication, be sure to discuss any potential food or beverages to avoid, as well as any warnings or side-effects with your doctor.

Avoid the following with certain medications:

• Grapefruit
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Licorice
• Chocolate
• Spinach
• Dietary Supplements

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