Taking Your Medication

Taking Your Medications Video

HOST ON CAMERA:
Hello, I’m Dr. Gerald Chodak. Nearly half of the people in the United States who are on medication don’t take their drugs as prescribed. Misusing medications can lead to serious health complications, and is responsible for one hundred and twenty-five thousand deaths every year. That’s why it’s critical to take your medication exactly as directed.

HOST NARRATION:
There are a number of reasons people fail to take their drugs as prescribed. Some people can’t remember…others stop when they experience unpleasant side effects…and, on occasion, prescriptions are simply too expensive for some to afford.

HOST ON CAMERA:
Whether taking drugs is new to you, or you’ve been on medicine for years, the first thing to do when given a new prescription is to learn about the medication. And the best place to start is with your doctor.  

DR HASSABOLLA:
I think it's very important for the patient to be educated and to be informed, uh, of what they're going to be taking and why it's going to help them. I think it's a very important part of what we do as physicians.

Doctor: Um, how are you doing with the medicines that you’re on?

Patient: The medicines are good.

Doctor: Treating you okay? Yeah

HOST NARRATION:
When you talk to your doctor, make sure you ask what the drug is supposed to do…when to take it…what side effects to expect…and what steps to take if those side effects occur. In addition, ask if any food, drinks, or other medications will cause any adverse reactions.

BILL MATTSON:
You need to keep the doctor aware of the additional things that you're taking. You may be taking something with your medications that//can be harmful.

HOST NARRATION: It’s also important to talk to your doctor before you stop taking any drug.

DR. COREY GOLDSTEIN:
It’s not uncommon for patients to feel pretty good and think I don’t need my medicine -- stop their medicine then which of course puts them at higher risk of relapsing

HOST ON CAMERA: To learn more about your prescriptions, you can also visit the library, search the internet, or consult with a pharmacist.

Pharmacist: Have you taken this medication before?

BILL MATTSON: We will always tell you about your drug. People need to know what they're taking and why they're taking it.

Pharmacist: Not more than every six hours.

HOST ON CAMERA:
While it helps to stay informed, patients who take several drugs may sometimes find it difficult to stay on schedule. If this occurs, here are a few tips to help you take your medicine properly.

HOST NARRATION:
Take your drugs at the same time every day, for instance when you brush your teeth. Purchase medication containers to help organize your pills. Color-code your prescription bottles to help you remember which ones to take in the morning, at midday, or at night. And keep a list of medications handy to help you stay on schedule.

Doctor: You’re on several medicines.

Patient: Yes

Doctor: The ones for blood pressure…

BILL MATTSON: My advice to patients is to seek instructions, ask your doctor what he wants you to do and to follow instructions.

HOST ON CAMERA:
An informed patient is a healthier patient. The more you know, the more likely you are to take your medicine as prescribed…and keep your condition under control. For the Answered Patient, I’m Dr. Gerald Chodak.