Taking Your Medications on Time: Here's How to Make It Easier
The phone rings, your breakfast runs late, and before you know it, you’ve forgotten to take your medication. It can happen. Still, it’s important to take your medication as prescribed. We call this “adherence.” It’s a complicated term for something practical: taking the right amount, at the agreed-upon times, and for as long as needed.
Why is that important?
A medication has the best chance of working if you use it correctly. Do you regularly skip a dose? Then it may not work as well. Do you take your doses too close together? Then you may experience more side effects.
The exact timing varies by medication. Your pharmacy will explain what’s important for you.
With these medications, consistent use is especially important
Antibiotics
Spread the doses throughout the day as indicated on the label. Take the antibiotic for as long as prescribed, even if you start feeling better sooner. Do not stop or extend the treatment on your own. If you experience any symptoms, consult your pharmacist or doctor.
Blood thinners
Some blood thinners, such as apixaban, provide less protection if you miss doses. This can increase the risk of a blood clot or stroke. So be sure to take them according to the agreed-upon schedule.
Medications for your heart and blood pressure
Even if you don’t feel any symptoms, these medications can play an important role. For example, they help keep your blood pressure low or support your heart. Do not stop taking them on your own just because you feel well. You should not suddenly stop taking certain heart medications, such as metoprolol.
Small habits help
- Set a reminder on your phone.
- Take your medication at the same time every day, if that aligns with your prescription.
- Use a clear schedule or a pill organizer.
- Order new medications before your supply runs out.
Missed a dose? Don’t just take a double dose. Check the package insert or call us. The correct advice varies by medication.
Too many pillboxes? A pill organizer can help
Are you taking multiple medications and having trouble keeping track of them? Then a pill organizer, also known as a Baxter roll, might be the solution.
Your medications are organized into pouches by dosing time. Each pouch is labeled with the date and time. This way, you don’t have to sort them yourself as much.
Your primary care physician and pharmacist can work with you to decide if a medication roll is a good fit. Not everything can fit in the roll, such as inhalers, ointments, and some loose medications. We’ll make clear arrangements about that.
Tell us what’s difficult
Do you forget your doses, experience side effects, or have doubts about the benefits? There’s no need to feel ashamed about that. Sometimes a simpler schedule or a different medication can help.Stop by or call your pharmacy technician or pharmacist.