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Medimate: What to do if you regularly use several medicinesWhat to do if you regularly use several medicines
Take special care to reduce the risk of problems
-
Know the names of your medicines, and what they look like.
- Record details of your medicines, including why you are using them on a Medicines List.
- Read the consumer medicine information (CMI) leaflets and keep them handy for future reference.
- Ask your pharmacist for advice on medication organisers — such as ones you fill yourself each day or week, or blister packs (e.g. Webster™ paks) filled by the pharmacist for a small fee. This will help you separate your medicines into the times and days you need to take them.
- Take out-of-date or unused medicines to your pharmacy for safe disposal.
A note on storage: Store medicines away from heat and damp because these conditions can damage most medicines. Do not store medicines in the bathroom or near a sink. Do not leave your medicines in a car. Always keep out of reach of children.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for suggestions
on ways to keep your medicines organised.
Have your medicines reviewed
See your doctor regularly or at least every 6 to 12 months to have your medicines reviewed. Ask whether you should stop taking your medicines or change the dosage.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether a Home Medicines Review would be useful to help you avoid problems with your medicines.
Find out more:
- Why you need to get to know your medicines
- Medicines don't just come on prescription
- You may need more than medicine
- Be an active partner in using your medicines
- Talk openly with your doctor and pharmacist
- Questions to ask your doctor and pharmacist
- Find out about medicine side effects
- Use consumer medicine information (CMI) leaflets
- Learn about generic medicines
- Keep an up-to-date Medicines List
- Information on medicines and health
You can download a full copy of Medimate or order a free copy.
Date published: 2009-09-23 00:00:00
Reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the date of creation. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from a qualified health professional. Health professionals should rely on their own expertise and enquiries when providing medical advice or treatment. Where permitted by law, NPS disclaims all liability (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or injury resulting from reliance on or use of this information. Read our full disclaimer.
References to brands should not be taken as an endorsement by NPS.
