Take your medication properly

Whether you take medications every day or only occasionally, it is important to take them "properly". But what does that mean exactly?

1. Follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor (or written on the package)
2. If you take more medicine than prescribed, you increase the risk of side effects as many of them are dose-related. In some cases, you could even put your life in danger. In addition, a higher dose is not necessarily a guarantee of more efficiency!
3. If you take a lower dose than prescribed, you may not get the desired effect, which may delay recovery or symptom control and may cause unnecessary visits to the doctor.
4. Respect the duration of treatment
5. The duration of treatment is determined by the nature of the health problem. A chronic condition requires chronic treatment. If treatment is stopped along the way, the disease will resume. Never stop a treatment without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist.
6. With over-the-counter medications, a maximum duration of treatment is usually specified. If symptoms persist beyond this limit, it is best to consult a physician.
7. Follow specific instructions
8. The dosage of your medication can be accompanied by specific instructions, e.g. taking with or without food, taking at bedtime or in the morning, avoiding alcohol, etc. It is very important to follow these instructions because they can have a significant impact on the effectiveness of the treatment or the occurrence of an adverse reaction.
9. Never share prescription medications
10. Even if your brother has the same symptoms as you, the medication your doctor has prescribed for you may not suit him, or even be dangerous to him! Never share your prescription drugs with anyone!
11. Master the administration device
12. If you need to use a device to take your medication (e.g. an insulin pen or an inhalation device for asthma), it is important to understand how to use it properly to ensure that the delivered dose is the right one. Tip: Take the time to review your technique with your pharmacist at least once a year.

Do you have any questions about your medications? Do not hesitate to talk to your pharmacist!