How to take medicines safely, and help family members keep track of their medication
Research suggests that half of medications prescribed for people with chronic diseases might not be taken correctly.
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As a pharmacist-health services researcher, Dr Antoinette Coe studies how to improve medication use and safety. Some of her motivation comes from personal experiences as a carer and helping family members keep track of their medications – which can get complicated.
Coe, an assistant professor of clinical pharmacy at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, in the United States, answered questions about how to prevent errors for
'The Experts Say' , an American Heart Association News series. Here are the highlights.
What errors do people make with medications?
Some common problems people make are forgetting to take it or not taking it at the right time; taking too much or too little; and taking medications that can interact with each other, including over-the-counter medications, herbal products and supplements.
Dr Antoinette Coe, an assistant professor of clinical pharmacy at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, studies medication safety. Photo: University of Michigan
What are the concerns for older people?
They may have multiple chronic conditions needing complex medication regimens, leading to an increased risk for drug interactions or challenges with taking medications.
Also, older adults may have changes in
liver or
kidney function, which can affect how the body metabolises and clears the medications from the body.
Vision or
hearing impairments may lead to problems reading prescription labels or hearing instructions.
Arthritis may make it hard to open bottles.
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Cognitive decline may make it harder for older adults to remember how or when to take their medications. Medication costs may also be a large problem.
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