8 ways to minimize medication mistakes

The reality is that medication mistakes can and do happen. Unfortunately, a study published in the journal Clinical Toxicology, found medication errors to be on the rise. Each year in the United States, the Food and Drug Administration estimates that 1.3 million people are injured by medication errors.  The study specifically found that the number of errors more than doubled from 3,065 cases in 2000 to 6,855 cases in 2012. 

For anyone taking medication and especially multiple medications at different times of the day, it’s easy to make a mistake – from the doctor ordering the wrong medication, to the pharmacist dispensing medications in the wrong dosage, or even ourselves of not following or understanding when or how much to take of our prescriptions.

Medications are meant to help a person feel better when sick. They can be extremely helpful when used properly but also extremely harmful if used incorrectly. Medication errors, such as receiving the wrong therapy or using an incorrect dosage of a drug, can potentially lead to serious outcomes.

To help reduce your risk for medication errors, here are 8 tips minimizing medication mistakes:

1. Discuss with your doctor the medication they are prescribing.

Instead of letting your doctor simply write a prescription and send you on your way, ask about the medication.  Find out what exactly the drug is for, as well as the side effects it could cause. Make sure you know the exact name – both the brand and generic name – before you leave the doctor’s office. Ask if the medication will interact with any of the medications you are already taking.

2. Ask questions about how to use the medication

One thing that is important in minimizing medication mistakes, is to feel comfortable with the doctor and pharmacist so you can freely ask questions. Good questions to ask: What should I do if I forget a dose? Should I take this medication before, during, or after meals? What should the timing be between each dose? What side effects might I have? Are there any foods or activities I need to avoid while using this medication? Should the medication be stored in the refrigerator or at room temperature? Take notes or ask your doctor to write down the instructions or information to help you remember.

3. Check prescriptions when you pick them up

Before leaving the pharmacy, look at the medicine bottles. Is there any difference between the name your doctor told you and what’s on the label? Is the dose the same? Do you understand how to take the medication? If you’re picking up a refill, open the bottle and check to see if the medicine looks different than normal.  If you have any doubts, ask your pharmacist.

4. Take medicine as prescribed or directed

Always read the label on medications that you are using. Be sure to read the instructions on the package and follow them closely. Do not guess the medication dosage, and never use any medication that is prescribed for someone else.

5. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have

Anytime you are about to undergo surgery or a medical procedure, tell the surgeon, anesthesiologist, nurse, dentist and any other healthcare provider about any allergies or severe reactions to anesthesia or other medications you have had. Make sure they also know about all medication you are currently taking.  This also includes any over-the-counter drugs, such as vitamins, herbal supplements, or pain relievers.

6. Keep a list of your medication with you at all times and let a loved one know

You, along with your spouse, significant other or at least one other person, should keep a list of your medications and dietary supplements at all times and have a copy at home. In an emergency, that person will be able to inform your doctors of the medications and dietary supplements you use.

7. Don’t assume each healthcare provider you see, automatically knows what medications you take

Be sure to tell every doctor, nurse, and specialist new to your healthcare team about your health conditions, allergies and reactions to treatments. It’s possible that they might miss key information.

8. Make it a habit of showing your list of medications at every doctor’s visit

Each time you have a doctor’s visit, take a list of all medications you are taking. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and dietary/herbal supplements. Keeping all healthcare professionals informed about everything you use will help ensure that you are not given two medications with the same active ingredient or use anything that will interact with something else you are using.