Tuesday, May 22, 2012

The Downside of Prescription Drugs


Researchers are calling the improper use of prescription drugs a growing public health problem. But experts caution that even the proper dosage can lead to danger.  One of the main problems is that before you know it you can find yourself on 5 - 6 medications and you could develop interaction complications.  I know of more than one person going through this right now.  If you are feeling worse instead of better, it’s really time for you to alert your Doctor(s) and have a conversation with him/them.


Most people don't realize how easy it is to get prescription drugs -- you can get them from your family doctor, you can get them online or you can get them on the street.  Combining these drugs and not knowing what you are doing or what you are treating is a huge poison mixture. You might also get one medication from your internist, one from your cardiologist and then yet another from your orthopedist.  You really need to be honest with each Doctor about ALL the medications you are currently taking.  You cannot rely on others to do the thinking for you.  Nor can you count on your Pharmacy to be the policeman here.  There are times when you also might get the prescriptions filled at different pharmacies.  If you are on prescription medication, it is important to read the labels on the pill bottles. The pharmacies don't put all those labels on the bottles that you get for no reason.   They also attach an informational sheet with each medication that they dispense indicating precautions you should be taking.  There are a lot of factors that go into how the medicine will affect you, your brain and your body. You need to take caution, read labels and be very prudent about what you are doing.

So once again, we are back to you being alert and aware about your own body.  Tap into how you are feeling each day.  Do some research on the internet regarding the medications that you are taking.  When you have concerns, speak up to your Doctor(s), challenge them and ask questions.   A  real professional will sit with you and answer all your questions and address all your worries.  If your Doctor does not live up to this standard, it might be time for you to seek a second opinion.  Better to be safe than sorry………………………………….

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