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 6/5/2009 Know Your Meds, Save Your Life The war on drugs generally refers to reducing the inappropriate use of illicit or street drugs. However, it is known that there are actually more problems involving the use of both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Specifically, problems may occur even when non-narcotic drugs, such as blood pressure medications, are used inappropriately or in the wrong combinations. Most people don’t keep track of their medications as well as they should; so, if they become ill or need a medical/surgical procedure performed, they’re not in a good position to advise their physicians on what drugs they are taking. This can have severe, negative consequences. For example, patients with heart or circulatory problems may be on a drug known as Warfarin or Coumadin, which are blood thinners used to prevent blood clots. If the patient needs to have surgery and fails to let his or her surgeon know about this medication, major bleeding complications can occur. Herbal drugs are another factor. Many people today take herbal supplements out of the belief that they may help them live healthier, longer lives. One such herb is gingko biloba, taken to increase or maintain brain function. However, this herb also interacts with Warfarin and can cause excessive bleeding, even resulting in fatalities. Anyone who is taking prescription drugs should keep a checklist of all their medications with them at all times in their wallet or purse, including over-the-counter drugs, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), herbal drugs, and all vitamin and mineral supplements. Patients should share this information with their physician at all visits. This is particularly important if there is more than one physician involved, so duplications and interactions can be minimized. The list should be updated whenever a change occurs and shared with all family members. Today more than ever, patients need to be active partners with their health care team and exercise some control by asking questions and being diligent about tracking their prescriptions. Being a participant in their own health care can help maximize all the benefits today’s medications have to offer.
For a convenient prescription tracking form, click on this link, http://www.henrymayo.com/pdf/medication_list.pdf, or go to www.henrymayo.com and click on “For Patients,” then the “Medication Record” link. U.S. Medication Statistics In September, 2008, the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists compiled the following statistics: · The average American is 10 times more likely to be hospitalized from an adverse drug reaction than a motor vehicle accident. · Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) cause over 100,000 deaths per year, making ADRs the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. · Medication related problems account for $201.4 billion in annual direct medical costs. · 51% of all insured Americans take at least one prescription drug. · 25% of older adults take five or more medications on a regular basis. |
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23845 McBean Parkway