What is medication management? Tips to help you stay organized.

Medication management is the process of staying up to date on the medications you are taking. The term “medication” refers to any prescribed, over-the-counter, dietary supplements, vitamins, herbals, or other substances you are taking to help manage or maintain your health.

Over 60% of seniors have multiple chronic conditions and nearly 20% of seniors take at least 10 medications per week. Managing your medications may be challenging, however, it is important to do this to ensure your safety. Nearly 1.5 million preventable adverse drug events occur in the U.S. each year and many are caused by medication errors, adverse drug interactions, and the inappropriate use of medications, according to the National Committee for Quality Assurance.

• Take all of the bottles/containers of medications you are taking (prescribed and over-the-counter) or bring a list of the medications you are taking to your doctor visits. Bringing a bag of all medications is also welcome by your providers.
• Make sure your primary care provider and any specialists you see know about all the medications you are taking. Throw out any medications you are no longer taking or expired medications.
• Write down any changes to your medication regimen.

• Create a schedule to help you manage the medications you are taking.
• Use pill boxes to prepare your medications in advance.  This keeps you from skipping or taking too much medicine.
• Set alarms to remind you when to take your medications.

If you are unsure about any medications please call your primary care provider or pharmacist!