Many people take many different medications at different times every day. Staying organized is very hard to do. Even when you know what medications you are taking, why you take them and how to take them, staying on a schedule and adhering to your medication regimen is very complex and difficult.
One of the easiest things that you can do to stay organized is to get a pillbox. The pillbox has individual sections for each day of the week. You simply put the pills that you take each day in the box marked "Monday," "Tuesday," Wednesday," etc. Pillboxes even come marked with different times of the day for each day of the week.
Pillboxes are available at most pharmacies. Some pharmacies may even provide these free of charge. One thing that you may want to remember is that pillboxes are not child-proof and should not be left in reach if young children are in the house or may come for a visit.
Many people also use timers or alarm clocks to alert them to the correct time to take their medication. This may even include an alarm on your smart phone or computer so that you don't forget your medications if you have to take them while you are at work. There are several different types of wrist watches that have an alarm or even vibrate to let you know its time to take your medication.
It is not necessary to spend a lot of money on gadgets to keep to your schedule. Simply link a routine daily activity like brushing your teeth or going to bed, with taking your medications. If you still get confused or forget, place a calendar near your pill box and put a check mark next to the date after you have taken your medication. Remember, successfully taking your medications will depend on whatever system works for you. Try a few just to see what works for you.
Additionally, be sure to carry a wallet size card with a list of your medications on it. This is handy just in case you don't have your full-size list with you. You can write all of the same information that is on your Daily Medication Schedule on a 3X5 card and carry this in your wallet or ask you pharmacist as many pharmacies provide these free of charge.
Lastly, many people have worn medical ID alert bracelets or necklaces for many years. This is a tried-and-true method to make sure that a healthcare provider knows that you have a medication allergy or a certain illness. Medical alert bracelets or necklaces are always a good idea and are available at most pharmacies.
Taking your medication correctly is very important for your healthcare. Failing to take your medications correctly results in many, very serious hospital admissions every year. It is important that you follow your directions carefully and adhere closely with your medication regimen. Remember, if you have problems understanding or difficulty taking your medication for any reason, call your doctor or pharmacist. They are there to help you with this.
Mary Sue McAslan, Pharm.D.
America's Family Pharmacist
DrMarySue@americasfamilypharmacist.com
http://www.americasfamilypharmacist.com
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