Tips for Starting a New Medication
Are you starting a new medication? Understanding how to navigate the world of medications can be complex and overwhelming, especially when it comes to managing side effects or figuring out what you need to do prior to taking something new. At times this process may even cause anxiety but there are some simple, proactive steps you can take before beginning a new course of treatment that will help ensure your safety and make sure that the experience is as positive as possible.
Tips for Starting a New Medication
Starting a new medication can be overwhelming and intimidating, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the drug or unsure of how to manage it. To make sure you get the most out of your new prescription, here are a few helpful tips to ensure successful medication management:
1) Follow the instructions: Make sure to follow all instructions given by your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding dosage, frequency, and duration for taking a medication. Ask questions about any potential side effects and make sure you understand them before starting the drug.
2)Create a routine and schedule: Establishing a regular time for taking the medications helps ensure that you do not forget to take it. Writing down when medications must be taken or using an electronic reminder system can also be very helpful in remembering when it is time for another dose.
3)Track changes/ Make notes: Pay attention to any changes with regards to side effects as well as effectiveness of the drug and make note of any concerns that you may have in order to discuss them with your health care provider or pharmacist.
4)Utilize pill organizers or containers: Pill organizers are excellent tools in helping patients keep track of what they need to take on each day while conveniently carrying the various medicines in one place, making them easier to transport if needed.
5)Communicate with your healthcare team: Be sure to communicate regularly with your healthcare team (physician, nurse practitioner, pharmacist etc.) about allergies, adverse reactions, and any other possible interactions with other drugs that you may be taking in order for them to provide appropriate treatments and prevent further complications due to drug interaction or incorrect doses being taken.
6) Adjustments & Avoid Interruptions: Medication adjustments should only be made per advice from your primary healthcare provider; do not stop taking medications without first consulting a medical professional as this may put you at risk for serious problems and cause more harm than good in terms of effectivity of therapy intended outcome goals achieved through taking medication(s). Additionally, avoid interruptions due to holidays or travel (when feasible) by preparing ahead of time; stock up on meds when appropriate so that there is no lapse in therapy regimen when away from home or unable to access pharmacies due to closures or lack thereof at destination location(s).
Overall, following these tips will help ensure successful management of medications and help minimize risks associated with incorrect dosing as well as potential side effects associated with medications taken incorrectly. Take the time to learn what it takes to create an uncomplicated medication routine and follow these tips for a successful treatment protocol to ensure the best outcome!
PFSP Specialty Pharmacy provides patients and their physicians an exceptionally high standard of care with our growing team of specialized pharmacists and staff. Our dedicated team of pharmacists focus on improving adherence for patients and work to find an approach that works best for them. Bringing a fresh take on what a Specialty Pharmacy can and should be, we are committed to the care of our patients. We take pride in being an ethical resource within our community and strive each day to help our patients live enriching and full lives.
