The purpose of a prescription is to reduce the number of symptoms you experience and improve your condition. However, an error could have a reverse impact with potentially fatal consequences.
While your pharmacist upholds the responsibility of carefully and accurately assigning you medication, there are also things you can do to reduce your exposure to error.
Communicate
After the technician fills your prescription, make sure you speak with your pharmacist. Verify the accuracy of the dosage information including its strength and the frequency you should take it. Clarify the bottle you have contains the correct medication that matches the description of the one your doctor prescribed for you.
Understand
Read through the instructions your pharmacist gives you. Make sure you understand how to properly take the medication. Learn about its side effects and what taking it should do for your symptoms. Know what foods, beverages or drugs to avoid while taking your prescription. According to the National Library of Medicine, medication errors cause the deaths of a staggering 7,000 to 9,000 people each year in the United States. Taking a few extra minutes to clarify your understanding is well worth your time.
Report
If a medication causes an adverse reaction or fails to make a difference in your condition, report the outcome to your doctor and the pharmacist. Similarly, if the prescription improves your condition, inquire with your doctor if you should continue taking it. Over-consumption without a need could damage your health and put you at a higher risk of adverse side effects.
You can advocate for your health in several ways, including making your own safety protocol for drug consumption. Your diligence could protect you from a dangerous error.