You have undoubtedly read articles in newspapers and magazines recently regarding the dangers of medications. Studies have suggested that nearly one-fourth of Americans over age 65 receive prescriptions for potentially dangerous medications even when safer choices are available. Illness or hospitalization -or worse- may result. These risks increase with your age, severity of your illness and the number of medications taken on the same day. You can assist in making drug therapy safer.

Patients receive medication prescriptions very frequently. The average patient sees multiple physicians, takes multiple over-the-counter drugs and may expect to receive a prescription at each office visit. If you are taking five or more medications, the risk of an adverse drug reaction may increase to 50 percent or more. Always discuss with your physician the possibility of stopping medications that are no longer required.

We all desire a pill to rid ourselves of symptomatic illnesses. How often have we requested antibiotics for a cold or other self-limiting illness? Already bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotics in part because of inappropriate overuse. Many side effects and serious illnesses result from unnecessary, expensive medications. Simple symptom-relieving, over-the-counter drugs are often the treatment of choice.

Less than one-fourth of all medication therapy is taken as prescribed; more than one-fourth of medications are not taken at all. To avoid problems, be open with your physician about your willingness to take a medication, how you are taking it and any side effects that you might be having. It is your right not to take medications as you wish, but faulty decisions may be made unless your physician knows what medications you are taking.

Keep a record of all the medications you are taking. Take this list or the I pills themselves with you when you visit your physician. You can avoid misunderstandings and mistakes. Keep an accurate record of drug reactions and allergies. Be responsible for giving that information to your doctor and pharmacist. When calling, inform your physician which medications you cannot take or might be allergic to.

Respect the dangers of over-the-counter medications. These drugs can cause major illnesses and death, even when taken according to dosing instructions. You must read all the instructions, especially regarding side effects and reactions with medications you may already be taking.

Be especially careful with pain medication. Acetaminophen is extremely safe unless you have serious liver disease. Cimetidine (Tagamet) interacts with many drugs. Antihistamines may cause drowsiness, confusion and problems urinating. Many arthritis medications cause fluid retention, high blood pressure and ulcer disease. These are only a few of the problems with non-prescription medications.

Inquire about less expensive generic alternatives. Your pharmacist can assist you. Less expensive alternatives of similar value often can be found. Generic medication is often appropriate. Ask for it when filling a prescription.

Medication, when used appropriately, often improves the quality of life. Working closely with your physician and pharmacist, you can enhance the quality of your medication therapy and, ultimately, your health.

J. D. Thoreson, M.D.
Department of Internal Medicine
Mason City Clinic