Pharmacists Share 7 Medication Mistakes to Avoid

Medications play a crucial role in managing health conditions and improving quality of life. However, even the most effective treatments can be compromised by common mistakes made by patients. Pharmacists, as medication experts, often see these errors and wish patients would avoid them to ensure optimal outcomes. Here are seven critical mistakes pharmacists wish you’d stop making with your medications.

1. Skipping Doses or Stopping Medication Early

One of the most common and dangerous mistakes patients make is skipping doses or stopping their medication early. Whether it's antibiotics, antidepressants, or blood pressure medication, stopping early can lead to treatment failure, resistance, or worsening of the condition.

• Why It’s a Problem: Skipping doses can lead to sub-therapeutic levels of the drug in your body, reducing its effectiveness. Stopping medication early, particularly with antibiotics, can result in incomplete treatment and the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
• Advice from Pharmacists: Always complete the full course of medication as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. If you have concerns about side effects or feel the medication isn't working, consult your pharmacist or doctor before making any changes.

2. Not Understanding the Medication Instructions

Misinterpreting medication instructions is another frequent issue. This can include misunderstandings about dosage, timing, or specific instructions like taking the medication with food.

• Why It’s a Problem: Incorrect administration can reduce drug efficacy or increase the risk of side effects. For example, some medications need to be taken with food to improve absorption, while others should be taken on an empty stomach.
• Advice from Pharmacists: Take the time to ask your pharmacist to clarify any instructions you don't understand. They can provide detailed explanations on how to take your medication correctly. Never hesitate to ask questions, no matter how trivial they may seem.

3. Mixing Medications Without Consulting a Pharmacist

Patients often take multiple medications, supplements, or over-the-counter drugs without realizing that some combinations can be harmful.

• Why It’s a Problem: Drug interactions can lead to serious side effects or reduce the effectiveness of your medications. For example, mixing certain over-the-counter cold medications with prescription drugs can cause dangerous increases in blood pressure.
• Advice from Pharmacists: Always inform your pharmacist about all the medications, supplements, and vitamins you are taking. They can check for potential interactions and advise on the best course of action.

4. Improper Storage of Medications

Storing medications incorrectly can degrade their effectiveness and safety.

• Why It’s a Problem: Medications exposed to excessive heat, light, or moisture can lose potency or become harmful. For instance, insulin and certain antibiotics need to be refrigerated.
• Advice from Pharmacists: Follow storage instructions carefully. Most medications should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Your pharmacist can provide specific storage guidelines for each medication.

5. Ignoring Expiration Dates

Taking expired medications is another common mistake that can lead to reduced efficacy or safety concerns.

• Why It’s a Problem: Over time, medications can break down and lose their potency. Some expired medications can also develop harmful by-products.
• Advice from Pharmacists: Regularly check your medication supplies and dispose of any expired drugs. Your pharmacist can advise on proper disposal methods, which often include returning them to the pharmacy or using designated disposal sites.

6. Self-Medicating Without Professional Advice

Using medications based on self-diagnosis or advice from non-professionals can be risky.

• Why It’s a Problem: Self-medicating can lead to incorrect dosing, inappropriate use of medications, and overlooking serious underlying health issues. For example, using someone else’s prescription painkillers for back pain without understanding the underlying cause can be dangerous.
• Advice from Pharmacists: Always seek professional medical advice before starting any new medication. Your pharmacist or doctor can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

7. Failing to Inform Healthcare Providers About Allergies and Health Conditions

Neglecting to inform healthcare providers about your allergies or existing health conditions can result in adverse drug reactions.

• Why It’s a Problem: Certain medications can exacerbate pre-existing conditions or interact with other treatments you are receiving. For instance, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can worsen kidney disease.
• Advice from Pharmacists: Always provide a complete health history to your pharmacist and other healthcare providers. This includes allergies, chronic conditions, and any other medications you are taking. This information helps them choose the safest and most effective medications for you.

Conclusion

By avoiding these common medication mistakes, you can ensure your treatments are as effective and safe as possible. Pharmacists are valuable resources in managing your health, so don’t hesitate to seek their advice and clarification. Proper medication management is a crucial part of maintaining your health and well-being.