This week's topic is about medications.  It is important to have a list of your current medications, doses, and how often you take them.  This list is necessary at all provider visits and any time you are admitted to the hospital.  It is also helpful to include why you are taking them, which provider ordered them, and when you started taking them.  Whenever you start a new medication, take some time to read the list of possible side effects.  Take note of which medications may make you drowsy and take them in the evening if possible.  If the instructions say to avoid alcohol, do so.  Some medications are best taken on an empty stomach and others are best taken with food.  Follow these instructions so the medication is absorbed properly.  If a medication causes side effects that you can't tolerate, discuss it with your provider before stopping.  They can often prescribe an alternate medication instead.  Some need to be weaned to prevent harm.  Do not take any over-the-counter drugs or herbal therapies unless you ask your provider first.  Some can interact with the medications you are prescribed.

If your medication list is quite long, it may be helpful to write out which ones you take at which time of the day.  A pill box with days of the week can be helpful to prevent mix ups and to help you remember if you took your pills. 

If you need to be on antibiotics, it is important to take all of the doses.  Stopping them when you "feel better" leads to antibiotic resistance, and your infection can come back.  Do not save antibiotics for a future infection.  Infections can be caused by a variety of bacteria, viruses, and fungus; not every antibiotic will treat every infection. 

Do not decrease your dose or cut pills in half to save money.  You need to take the full amount to get the full benefits.  If cost is a concern, let your provider know.  They may be able to change it to a cheaper medication or find resources to help with the cost.  Don't wait until you are completely out of medication before filling your prescriptions.  Refill them at least a week in advance.  When traveling, bring your medications.  It may be wise to bring an extra week's worth and prescriptions in case you need to refill them if your trip is extended for any reason.  Some medications take time to build up in your body to be effective.  Be sure to give them adequate time to work.  Others may lose their effectiveness over time, so be sure to let your provider know if you notice a difference in how well the treatment plan is working.