Medications perform a wide variety of functions, including facilitating recovery and combatting microorganisms that have invaded your body. Whatever your purpose for taking medicines, there are two important goals that you should achieve: get better, and get the best value for your money.
It is no understatement that the development of medicines has enabled people to live longer and have a better quality of life. However, when taken incorrectly, medicines can pose harm, and it could even mean that you end up wasting your money.
If you wish to get the most out of your medicines, here are a few helpful tips.
- Don't hesitate to ask your doctor
Before leaving your doctor's office after a consultation, be sure to ask questions about the medications he has prescribed, especially if something is unclear to you.
Specifically, you might want to enquire about what the medicine does, when and how to take it, potential side effects, interactions with food and other medicines, and other restrictions.
Also, make sure that your doctor jots down the generic brand of the medicine, if available, so that you can have a low-cost alternative.
- Establish a schedule for taking your medications
Ideally, most medicines should be taken during the same time of the day. This ensures that your body gets the ample dosage it needs.
In order to maintain a regular schedule, there are a few things you can do. First, you can set an alarm to remind you. If you need to take medications a few times during the day, you may want to use your smartphone for that. Next, keep your medicine bottle in an accessible area and keep it there so you won't misplace it. Make sure that it is inaccessible to your young ones.
- Know what the restrictions are
If your doctor prescribes you medicine, make sure to ask about any restrictions, including foods and activities to avoid. On the other hand, if you are consuming over-the-counter medication, be sure to carefully read the product package.
- Other caveats
It would be helpful to inform other members of your household about the medications you are taking. They can remind you when it is time to take your medications.
Avoid taking prescription medicines with over-the-counter medications unless you have been given the approval by your doctor.
Make sure to follow your doctor's prescription including the dosage and how many times a day you need to take it and the length of time you need to medicate.
Ask your doctor how the medicine should be taken. Do not simply swallow, break or chew your medicine as this may undermine its ability and potency.