Medication errors are rising-but these simple steps can help keep you safe
BY BETH HOWARD
Changes at Discharge :
PREVENTION:
When you leave the hospital, ask how your drug regimen is changing and
why you're receiving any new medicines, Unroe advises. And be sure to
take your discharge papers- including your new drug list-to your next
appointment with your primary care physician. _
Be Drug-Savvy:
• Know every medication you take and why you take it-a surprising number of
people don't, says pharmacy specialist Todd Semla, Pharm.D.
• Buy your drugs from a single pharmacy. Most have computer programs that
catch potentially dangerous drug interactions, which can result when you get
prescriptions from different doctors.
• Develop an ongoing relationship with an individual pharmacist who will look
out for your safety. Start by scheduling a "brown bag" appointment, to which
you bring every over-the-counter and prescription medicine you take. This helps
identify negative side effects and any overlapping therapies. -B.H.
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