Tips For
Taking Medicines
This booklet will help you get the best from your medicines.
Contents Getting the best from your medicines
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Taking the first step
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At the pharmacy
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What about non-prescription medicines?
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General tips for taking medicines
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Remembering to take your medicine
10
Carers can help too
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Medicines come in different forms
13
Directions on medicines explained
14
Have you checked the expiry date?
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Where should I store my medicines?
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What should I do if? • The medicine causes side effects • I forget to take my medicine • I take too much of the medicine
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Patient Medication Record
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Getting the best from your medicines You are the most important person when it comes to getting the best from your medicines. The doctor or pharmacist has decided what medicine is most suitable for you, having discussed your condition with you. But at the end of the day, whatever medicine you are on, whether it’s a tablet for hayfever or something you take every day for your heart, it is up to you to use it correctly. Taking medicines can be a complicated business especially if you are not used to taking them or have to use several medicines at once. This booklet has lots of useful tips to help you take your medicines correctly.
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Taking the first step The first step to getting the best from your medicines is to ensure that the right medicine is prescribed for you. When we’re not feeling well, we often turn to our family and friends for advice. Sometimes this is not the best course of action as the treatments that suited them may not be right for you. You may also get information on the Internet, however, it may not be very detailed or reliable. Deciding to go to the doctor’s surgery or the local pharmacy may be a better option. Before doing that, stop and think about what you want. Here are some useful tips that will help:
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Write down any questions you have before you visit your doctor or pharmacist so that you don’t forget them. If you don’t like asking questions, why not bring a friend or family member with you?
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Tell the doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines you are taking. Some medicines affect each other, which can change the way they work. Tell your doctor about any allergies or reactions to medicines you have experienced in the past. Make sure you understood what the doctor or pharmacist told you. If you are not sure, don’t be afraid to ask again. REMEMBER, IT IS YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW! In particular, be sure you have the following information:
• The name of the medicine prescribed for you. • What it is for and how it works. Will there be a delay before it starts to work?
• How to take the medicine, e.g. what dose, when and how often each day?
• Possible side effects and what you should do if they happen. • Anything you shouldn’t eat or drink while using the medicine. • If the medicine is likely to affect any others that you are taking
(including any non-prescription medicines, herbal or homeopathic remedies or any other complementary medicines).
• If the doctor needs to see you again and if so, when? • How long you should take the medicine for. • What to do if you need a repeat prescription. • What to do if the medicine doesn’t seem to be working. You will also find this information in the leaflet that comes with your medicine 5
At the pharmacy If you get a prescription from your doctor, have it dispensed as soon as possible unless he or she has said that the prescription is only to be used if, for example, you are feeling worse.
Here are some tips while at the local pharmacy:
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Get to know your pharmacist. He or she is there to help you and keeps a record of the different medicines you get from that pharmacy. It is a good idea to get all your prescription medicines from the same pharmacy so that the pharmacist knows about everything that you are taking. If you have forgotten any of the information that the doctor gave you about the medicine, ask your pharmacist. They can also help with questions that you forgot to ask the doctor. Remember that your pharmacist is an expert on medicines and can advise you on any aspect of them. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – if at first you don’t understand, ask and ask again!!! Make sure you understand what to do because knowledge really is the best medicine! 6
What about non-prescription medicines? There are lots of effective medicines available without prescription to treat your minor ailments. These medicines are safe if used properly. This means taking the right dose at the right time and in the right way. If taken incorrectly, or used for long periods of time or in amounts greater than recommended on the pack, non-prescription medicines can cause problems. There are a few simple steps you can take to avoid problems.
To get the best from your non-prescription medicines:
• • • •
Be sure that the medicine is right for you before you buy it by reading the label or checking with your pharmacist. Tell them if you are taking any other medicines. The label and leaflet with the medicine have lots of information on how to use it. Always read this information carefully and follow the instructions given exactly. Never take more than the recommended dose. Non-prescription medicines are not intended for long-term use. If you are not feeling better after a few days, see your doctor. Do not take two or more products containing paracetamol together at the same time. If you are unsure whether a product contains paracetamol, check the label or ask your pharmacist.
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General tips for taking medicines Know as much as possible about the medicines you are taking. Remember, understanding what it is all about is one way of being in control.
• • • • •
Before taking your medicine, always read the label on your medicine and the leaflet provided – here you will find lots of useful information about how to use the medicine, its side effects, what to do if you miss a dose, etc. Finish all your medicines, unless your doctor tells you not to. This is very important for medicines like antibiotics where you must take the full quantity even if you are feeling better. If your doctor prescribes a new medicine, find out if you should stop taking any medicines that you are already on. Don’t save a prescription for future use unless your doctor tells you to. Don’t share your medicine with others or use a medicine that was prescribed for someone else.
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When certain medicines are mixed with alcohol, the result can be harmful. Check with your doctor or pharmacist. If you are away from home, make sure you carry enough of your medicine with you to take the proper dose while you’re out. Take extra in case you are away longer than expected. If you are taking medicines on a long-term basis, you must visit your doctor regularly to have your medication reviewed and a new prescription issued if necessary. Prescriptions are valid for a maximum of six months unless your doctor has specified a shorter period. If you are not sure if your prescription is still valid, check with your doctor or pharmacist. Usually your pharmacist will remind you when you need to get a new prescription. If you have difficulty:
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reading small print on medicine labels, ask your pharmacist to use large print or jumbo labels on containers.
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using an inhaler or eye drops or swallowing tablets, ask your pharmacist’s advice. For example, there are devices available to help you use an inhaler properly. If you don’t ask your pharmacist, you may never find out!
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opening child-resistant containers, ask your pharmacist to use ordinary bottle tops instead.
If you don’t feel that your medicine is helping you, talk to your doctor and ask why.
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Remembering to take your medicine We have all forgotten to take our medicines at one time or other. The following hints will help you to remember!
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Take your medicine at the same time every day. Take it with meals (unless the label says otherwise) or other daily events, like brushing your teeth. Use dosage aids such as special pill boxes to help you keep track – these are available from your pharmacy. Put a sticker or reminder note on your medicine cabinet or fridge. Get your family or friends to remind you. Send yourself reminders using your mobile phone or PC.
I’m on several medicines – how can I remember to take them all? If you are taking several medicines together, it can be difficult to keep track of when to take them. The following tips may help:
• •
Ask your doctor if it is possible to simplify your medication. This may be done by reducing the number of medicines or how often they have to be taken, for example, by using controlled release products (these are medicines that are designed to work over a longer period). Ask your pharmacist to write out a daily plan for taking them.
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Use a chart or diary to write down the details of all medicines you are taking. A patient medication record is perfect for this and one is available at the back of this booklet. Make an instruction sheet for yourself by taping a sample of each pill you have on a sheet and writing down all the information about that pill to remind you to take it. Get some coloured labels and stick them onto your medicine bottles to help simplify your routine. For example, blue could be for morning, red for afternoon and yellow for bedtime.
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Carers can help too Most of the tips in this booklet are aimed at people who can manage their own medicines. However, some people may not be in a position to do this such as the elderly and people with physical or learning disabilities. Their carer (who may be a family member, friend or minder) has a very important role to play in helping them to take their medicines properly.
If you are a carer,
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Accompany the person in your care when they go to see the doctor or pharmacist. Seek information and assistance from the doctor or pharmacist on how best to help them take their medicines correctly. Read this booklet carefully – it has lots of suggestions that will be of use to you.
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Medicines come in different forms Medicines are made in lots of ways, for example, tablets, capsules, liquids, creams, inhalers and suppositories. Here are some tips on using different forms of medicines:
Tablets/Capsules: • Don’t cut or crush tablets without
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checking with your pharmacist that it is okay to do this. Some tablets will only work properly if swallowed whole and unbroken. Swallow tablets and capsules while sitting up or standing to ensure they don’t get stuck in your throat – take them with plenty of cold liquid (ideally water).
Liquids: • Always measure out the correct dose using the •
medicine spoon or measuring cup supplied. Never use a household teaspoon as they vary in size and you may not get the right dose. Ask your pharmacist for a medicine spoon if there is none supplied with your medicine.
Inhalers: • Shake the inhaler before each puff • Rinse out your mouth after using your inhaler so that the medicine does not remain in your mouth.
Ask your pharmacist for help if you are unsure about how to use any type of medicine.
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Directions on medicines explained All medicines have lots of information on their labels and leaflets, for example, what dose to take, how to store the medicine as well as additional directions (sometimes known as “warnings�) that aim to ensure you get the best possible benefit from your medicine. Always follow these directions carefully and ask your pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure how to use your medicine.
A list of the most common statements that appear on medicines is given below and each one is explained for you: Taking the Medicine
What does it mean?
Dissolve or mix with water before taking
The medicine must not be swallowed whole. Dissolve it in or mix it with a glass of water before it is taken.
Dissolve under the tongue
Some medicines work best if they dissolve under the tongue rather than in the stomach. Simply place the tablet under your tongue and allow it to dissolve fully before swallowing.
Follow the printed instructions you have been given with this medicine
Any written information given to you by your doctor/pharmacist (e.g. leaflet, card etc.) should be read carefully before using the medicine. If you don’t understand this information, ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain it to you.
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Taking the Medicine
What does it mean?
For external use only
This medicine must never be swallowed by mouth.
For inhalation only
This statement is found on medicines that release a vapour which is intended to be inhaled. The medicine itself must not be swallowed by mouth.
For nasal use only
This statement is found on nose sprays and nose drops. Don’t swallow them or use them in the eyes or ears.
For ophthalmic use only/ For optical use only
This statement is found on eye ointments and eye drops. Don’t swallow them or use them in the ears or nose.
For rectal use only
This statement is found on suppositories and enemas and they should not be swallowed.
For topical use only
This medicine is intended to be applied to the skin and it should not be swallowed.
For vaginal use only
This statement is found on pessaries and they should not be swallowed.
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Directions on medicines explained Taking the Medicine
What does it mean?
Hold in mouth before swallowing
This statement is usually found on liquid medicines used for the treatment of mouth infections or mouth ulcers. The longer the medicine is held in the mouth, the more effective it will be. After the medicine has been held in the mouth for a few minutes, you can safely swallow it.
Not more than ——(e.g. six tablets) in 24 hours
This warning indicates the maximum dose or number of tablets that can be taken in any 24-hour period. Never take more than the amount indicated, as this could be harmful.
Take at night
This medicine should be taken last thing at night before you go to sleep.
Take ——(e.g. an hour) before food or on an empty stomach/Take between meals
Some medicines work best when there is no food in the stomach. Unless the label specifies exactly how long before food the medicine should be taken, allow at least one hour before or after a main meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner) before taking it.
Take in the morning
This medicine should be taken first thing in the morning after you get up.
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Taking the Medicine
What does it mean?
Take one 5ml spoonful ‌
If a 5ml medicine spoon is not supplied with your medicine, ask your pharmacist to give you one. Never use an ordinary household teaspoon as they vary in size and you may end up taking too little or too much medicine.
Take three times daily. Take at regular intervals
This medicine should be taken every eight hours over the 24-hour day, e.g. 8am, 4pm and 12 midnight.
Take four times daily. Take at regular intervals
This medicine should be taken every six hours over the 24-hour day, e.g. 8am, 2pm, 8pm and 2am. Try to keep the gap between the last dose at night and first dose in the morning as close to six hours as possible.
Take with or after food
Some medicines work best when there is food in the stomach – these medicines should be taken during or immediately after a meal.
To be applied sparingly
This statement applies mainly to creams and ointments. Enough cream/ointment should be applied to cover the entire affected area with a thin layer. The cream/ointment should not be rubbed in unless you are told to do this on the label or by your doctor or pharmacist.
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Directions on medicines explained Taking the Medicine
What does it mean?
WARNING: Do not exceed the stated dose
The label or package leaflet will tell you how much medicine to use and how often you should use it. Always follow these instructions carefully and never take more.
Other Warnings
What does it mean?
Avoid alcoholic drink
You should not take any drinks containing alcohol e.g. beer, wine, spirits as they might lead to unwanted side-effects or prevent your medicine from working properly.
Contains wheat starch/gluten
Some people are allergic to an ingredient of wheat called gluten. This warning applies specifically to this group and is not important for most people.
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Other Warnings
What does it mean?
Do not take any other paracetamol-containing products. Immediate medical advice should be sought in the event of overdose even if you feel well
Paracetamol has virtually no side effects when taken at the correct dose. However, an overdose of paracetamol can cause liver damage leading to death if not treated promptly.
Do not take anything containing —— (e.g. aspirin) whilst on this medicine
The substance mentioned might affect the medicine that you are taking leading to unpleasant effects or stop it working properly. Always check the label of other medicines to ensure you don’t take the substance mentioned by accident. If you are unsure, check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Do not take milk, iron preparations or indigestion remedies at the same time of day as this medicine
Milk, iron supplements or indigestion remedies should not be taken less than one hour before or one hour after your medicine as they might interfere with it leading to unwanted effects or stop it working properly.
You should never take two or more products containing paracetamol at the same time. Paracetamol is found in many preparations available for pain relief as well as in cold and flu remedies plus items prescribed by your doctor. If you are unsure whether a product contains paracetamol, check the label or ask your pharmacist.
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Directions on medicines explained Other Warnings
What does it mean?
May cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery
If you feel sleepy and unable to concentrate after taking the medicine, you must not drive a car, tractor, motorbike etc. or use heavy or dangerous machinery e.g. lawn mower, chainsaw, machinery at work, etc. Usually, the drowsiness passes after a short period of time, but it can last for a number of hours. If this causes problems for you, ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend another medicine that does not cause drowsiness.
Not to be applied to broken skin
This medicine should not be used on areas of the skin that are damaged due to a cut, bruise, sting or graze.
Not to be taken
Don’t swallow this medicine by mouth.
This medicine may colour the urine or stools
This medicine may cause a change in the colour of your urine or stools but this is not in any way harmful.
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Storing Medicines
What does it mean?
Discard —— weeks after opening
Some medicines begin to go off immediately after opening and will only be safe to use for a short period. Once opened, do not use these medicines beyond the period of time stated on the label. Return any unused medicines to your pharmacist for safe disposal as soon as possible.
Do not use —— weeks after opening
Store in a cool place
Keep the medicine in a cool dry room (not the kitchen or the bathroom). Don’t store medicines close to heat (e.g. a radiator or fire or in direct sunlight).
Do not store above 25°C
Keep the medicine in a cool place. See above for details.
Store at 2°C - 8°C (in a refrigerator).
Keep your medicine in the fridge (NOT in the freezer).
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Have you checked the expiry date? • •
•
All medicines are labelled with a “best before” date or "expiry" date. This date is printed on the bottle, tube or box and also on every blister strip. (The number that appears beside the expiry date is the manufacturer’s batch number). The expiry date is usually in the format “Exp: 03 2008” or “ Exp 03/2008” – in this example, the medicine is safe to use until the end of March 2008. If a specific date is given e.g. “Exp 20/3/2008” – the medicine can be used up until 20th March 2008 but not after that date. Always check the expiry date of a medicine before you take it. If it is out-ofdate, do not use it!
Out-of-date or unused medicines should be returned to your pharmacist who will dispose of them safely.
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Where should I store my medicines? Keep your medicines safe and in good condition by storing them correctly.
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Keep your medicines in a cool, dry place, out of sunlight and away from direct heat (e.g. a radiator or fire). Medicines should not be stored in the kitchen or in the bathroom. The heat and steam in these rooms could damage the medicine. Some medicines have to be kept in the fridge. Check the label or leaflet if you are unsure – you will see a statement like “Store in a refrigerator” or “Store at 2°C - 8°C”. Medicines should never be in direct contact with food in the fridge. If you have a freezer compartment in your fridge, don’t put medicines on the shelf below it in case they freeze. If your medicine freezes, check with pharmacist if it is still safe to use. Keep all medicines, even seemingly harmless medicines, well out of reach and sight of children on a high shelf or in a locked press. Don’t forget that children can climb higher than you think! Never repack medicines – keep them in their original containers. If you are unsure about where to store your medicines, ask your pharmacist for advice. Don’t hoard medicines, unless they are part of your family First Aid kit.
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What should I do if? The medicine causes side effects Sometimes when taking medicines, things we don’t expect can happen. That’s the time to call your doctor. Here are examples of signs to watch for:
• Skin rashes or itchiness • Difficulty breathing • Unusual headaches or dizziness • Unexplained or easy bruising • Mood changes • A loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting • Slurred speech, memory loss or impaired judgement • Changes in sleeping patterns such as unusual drowsiness or recurring unpleasant dreams.
There is the possibility that these symptoms may be the result of your medication but they could be connected to other causes. In any case, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist first before you stop taking a medicine because of its side effects.
I forget to take my medicine If you forget to take your medicine, don’t assume that you should double the next dose or simply skip the missed dose. The correct course of action varies from medicine to medicine.
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The leaflet that comes with your medicine describes what to do if you miss a dose. If you don’t have the leaflet or are in any way unsure what to do, check with your pharmacist or doctor.
I take too much of the medicine If you accidentally take too much medicine, don’t panic. The leaflet that came with your medicine will tell you what to do. If you don’t have the leaflet contact your pharmacist or doctor immediately. If a child has taken medicines by accident, go to your nearest hospital or contact a doctor immediately. Bring the remaining medicine with you to the doctor or hospital so they will know exactly what the child has taken.
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Patient Medication Record Name: Address: Tel. No.: Blood Group: Medical Card Number: Drugs Payment Scheme Number: Long Term Illness Scheme Number: Doctor’s Name: Doctor’s Tel. No.: Pharmacy Name: Pharmacy Tel. No.: Health Centre: Health Centre Tel No.:
In Case Of Emergency Please Notify: Name: Address: Tel No.: Relationship: Visit www.medicines.ie for medicines information.
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Please Tick Any Of The Following Which Apply To You: I am allergic to: Morphine
Gluten
Codeine
Aspirin
Peanuts
X-ray contrast dye
Penicillin
Shellfish
Other
Insect bites
Sulpha drugs
I have: Heart condition
Glaucoma
Dialysis
Emphysema
Epilepsy
Hypertension
Contact lenses
Abnormal ECG
Removable dentures
Arthritis
Hearing aid
Pacemaker
Diabetes
Kidney problems
Other
This medication record will help you to keep track of your medicines. Keep it up to date with all prescription and non-prescription medicines you are taking. Carry it with you at all times and show it to your doctor each time you visit. If you see more than one doctor, make sure each one knows about all the medicines you take. Show it to your pharmacist when you pick up a prescription or non-prescription medicine. Visit www.medicines.ie for medicines information.
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List All Prescription And Non-Prescription Medicines Date
IRISH PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTHCARE ASSOCIATION
Name, Dose and Directions
Produced by The Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association www.ipha.ie with the support of The Health Promotion Unit, Department of Health and Children www.doh.ie Visit www.medicines.ie for medicines information
Reason
HEALTH PROMOTION UNIT