Danger! Medication Duplication

The elderly population is one of the highest 'at risk' age groups other than toddlers. Some of the basic dangers they face are the same issues, not due to immaturity or senility but physiological effects such as poor eyesight, slow response time, lack of fine motor coordination, and disrupted thought processes.

One of the main dangers seniors face today is the potential for medication duplication. Rarely today does an individual visit only one physician. Modern medicine has opened the door to 'specialty' physicians, i.e., Cardiac specialist, renal specialist, orthopedic specialist and so on. How do we ensure that there is open communication not only between the patient and their doctor, but also between the physicians themselves?

One of the simplest interventions is to make a list of all medications from all physicians on 3 x 5 index cards to keep in one's wallet, by the phone, and to provide to each physician. Be sure to give copies to family members and friends as well in case of emergency. Insist that your physician contact your primary care physician after each visit, especially if medications are changed. Write down any changes and update personal records. Unexpected hospitalization can wreak havoc with drug regimens and is a prime opportunity for drug duplication and interactions to take place without proper communication from family members and the medical staff. When traveling out of your community make sure a list of all medications are kept current with other important cards in your possession. When being discharged from a hospital ensure that a comprehensive review of all medication is performed and again, have copies made to send to primary care physicians and any other physicians the client may visit.

Be aware of your medications. Knowing the trade name of a drug as well as the generic name alerts patients when talking to their doctors or nurses about drug regimens. Knowing the basic side effects, precautions, and reasons they are taking the medication is all useful knowledge increasing patient compliance and interaction with physicians. Individuals need not memorize long lists of impossible drug names and pharmacologic gibberish. Most pharmacies are happy to provide their clients with printouts of medication information written in simple language when asked. The print is usually in a large font to make them easier to read and understand.

Knowledge is power. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Doctors do make mistakes. If unsure of a medication, ask about it. If necessary, keep a diary or simple log when taking new medications to track any side effects or adverse reactions. Call the prescribing physician immediately if dizziness, palpitations, or odd sensations occur. Dietary restrictions may be required with some medications, so know what foods to avoid. Talk to the doctor or nurse about over the counter medications and any precautions that need to be taken. Preventing harm from multiple medications need not be complicated.