About 300,000 people are injured and between 100,000 and 200,000 are killed each year in the United Stated because of medication errors according to recent studies.  Elderly people are especially at risk because they tend to take multiple medications.  The more medications an elderly person takes, the greater the risk of harm. 

Here are some effective ways to reduce the danger of making a mistake with medications:

1. Tell your doctor and pharmacist of all the other medications you are taking (including over the counter medications and vitamins) and ask if there are any medications that you should not be taking at the same time.  
2. Check the label at the pharmacy when picking up prescriptions to verify that you are receiving the proper medication. Read back the prescription to your pharmacist. 
3. Pay attention to the color, size, shape or smell of your medication and notify the pharmacist immediately if there are any changes.
4. If you are in doubt about a medication, always consult your doctor or pharmacist right away. 
5. Read the patient information sheet that accompanies the medication.  It is good practice to remind yourself of the important information on the sheet.
6. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about any side effects you may experience from the medication and pay attention to whether you develop any of the side effects.  Notify your doctor of any side effects right away.
7. Know what to do if you miss a dose of any medication.  This information may be found on the patient information sheet that comes with the medication.  Otherwise, call your pharmacist or doctor.
8. Fill all prescriptions at the same pharmacy.
9. Keep all medications in the original containers.
10. Do not share or take another person’s medication.
11. When in a nursing home or hospital:

o       Identify yourself to the nurse bringing any medications. This is to make sure that you do not receive someone else’s medications.

o       Remind your doctor if you have any allergies to certain medications and food or if you also have a health condition that could affect the use of certain medications.  Do not assume that doctors or nurses remember the drugs you are taking.  Overworked staff forget the basics. 

o       Ask nurses to identify each medication by name before you take it.

o       Tell nurses if you are not getting your medications at their regular times.  You are more familiar with your medication routine than the nurses.  Do not be afraid to speak up.

12. Create a list of all the medications you are taking.  Carry the list with you in your wallet or purse and share it with your family members. The list should include the following information:

o       Your full name and date of birth

o       Drug name (the drugs being taken, both generic and brand)

o       Strength (dosage)

o       Directions for using the medication, including how many times a day and when the medication should be taken

o       What liquids or foods are being used to take or should be used to take with medications, for example, water, juice, applesauce etc.

o       Allergies to certain medicines and foods

o       Pharmacy and health care providers names, addresses, telephone numbers

o       Family emergency contact information