Did you know that not taking your medications as directed can cost you not only money and time, but possibly your life? It is estimated that 89,000 people die each year due to failure to take their blood pressure medications as prescribed. Not taking medications appropriately increases the number of doctor and hospital visits, plus the amount of time spent in the hospital. The increased health care costs from people not taking their medications as directed can be as much as $300 billion per year in the United States.
Here are some tips to help you stay on track with your medications:
Make sure you understand how to take your medication. If you do not, talk to your pharmacist or health care provider.
Use a daily organizer, such as a pill box.
Associate taking your medications with part of your daily schedule. For example, with your breakfast or before bedtime.
Take advantage of technology. Use cell phone text reminders, watches with alarms, or special pharmacy bottle caps that glow to remind you to take your medications.
If you experience side effects talk to your health care provider. There may be an alternative medication that is appropriate for you.
If cost is an issue talk to your health care provider or pharmacist. There may be a generic available or some drug companies offer patient assistance programs.
Taking your medication correctly not only may save you time and money, but it may also help you live a longer life!
Thank you Kristen for some useful tips with regard to medication usage, and tips to help as easy reminders, such as, the glowing bottle tops! I never knew pharmacies supplied them! Even though it’s a simple tip, it’s one that will actually help my family be better organized with our prescription needs! As a side note: Great Job! It’s wonderful to see you are doing so well and still doing a great service to individuals! Very inspiring! Thanks again, Danielle R. Montello
Thanks for taking the time to read my blog, and for your comments. I really appreciate it. I just wanted to clarify the information on the glow caps. They are not available at this time through retail pharmacies. However, they may be available through either your health care provider’s office or your insurance company.
Hi Kristen,
This is a very good message for both patients and pharmacist.
Personally iam a clinical pharmacist and i feel so much inspired.
Thanx