: Tips for Avoiding Drug Interactions

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(412 Words)
Drug interactions can be very dangerous and even deadly. You will want to do all that you can in order to avoid these powerful mixtures of medicines. Consider the following tips.
Do not just assume that any two are okay
Some people just assume that they can take two medicines together. They may be medicine that you consider to be mild like over the counter medicines but that does not mean that they cannot produce a deadly mixture. You need to consider ALL medications such as prescription medications, over-the-counter medications and even supplements and vitamins. Unless a professional tells you that they are okay, then you need to check.
Every time you are prescribed a new medication, talk to the doctor about the medications you are already taking
When you get a new medication you want to make sure that the doctor is aware of any other medications that could possibly make a dangerous interaction. Even if it is the same doctor that prescribed you the other medication, you should still mention it again when he or she prescribes the new one. Remember that he is seeing a lot of patients every day and he might not remember every single medication that you are on. You should have all of the details about the medication ready such as how much you take and when you take it. Also tell them about any medical issues you have such as kidney disease because this could make a difference as well. Ask not only about whether you can take the two but the time span that you can take them in (sometimes you can take two medications but they must be apart by a certain amount of time). If he or she has any doubts then find out who else you need to ask.
Talk to the pharmacist
A pharmacist can also help to tell you about drug interactions. You may use them to double-check what the physician tells you.
Read the drug information fully
Yes it is small type, but it is important to read all of the information that comes with the drugs. They will often list the other drugs that you should avoid. It does not usually give a complete list, however, so do not assume that because it doesn’t say something that it is okay to take the medications together.
You want to take all of the necessary steps to avoid drug interactions. The above tips can help you do so.
Updated On: 08/26/2010 Published On: 08/26/2010 Article ViewerClose
Helium 360 – Living Healthy 360
LIVING HEALTHY PROJECT 20100801 – 20100831
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