How to Avoid Dangerous Drug Interactions

Most people take medications for something. There are prescription drugs and over the counter drugs for just about every ailment. You must be careful when taking any drugs, as they can be harmful as well as helpful. Follow these tips to avoid dangerous drug interactions.

Instructions

1. Read all labels. Each time you take a drug, you should always read the label on the bottle. Make sure that you're not only taking the correct medication, but also that you're taking it in the correct manner and dosage. If you're supposed to take it with food, by all means eat something.

2. Tell your doctor what you take. Whenever you go to your doctor, you might notice that your doctor typically asks about any medications you might be taking. This is because the chemicals in your medication may have adverse effects on your body if they are combined in incorrect ways. If you tell your doctor about all medications you're taking, you can help avoid dangerous drug interactions.

3. Make a list of all the medications you're currently taking, if you are taking multiple prescriptions. This can help you when you visit your doctor or pharmacist to make sure they're getting your prescriptions correct. This is especially helpful when you're visiting a specialist who doesn't see you regularly.

4. Visit just one pharmacy. Pharmacies keep records of everything you're taking and they can double check any effects the medications may have on one another.

5. Take only your medications. You might think from time to time that if your family member is taking a drug for a particular ailment, that it might be okay for you to take it for the same ailment. But this drug might have serious and dangerous interactions with the drugs you already are taking.

6. Talk with your doctor before taking any vitamins or herbal supplements with your prescriptions. These supplements and vitamins can have adverse effects when mixed with your prescription drugs.