Tips To Avoid Prescription Errors
POSTED: 11:00 am EDT May 1,
2008
UPDATED: 11:09 am EDT May 1,
2008
- Talk to the Pharmacist. Always accept the offer to speak with a pharmacist on each new prescription. Pharmacies are required to have their staff offer to counsel you on each new prescription.
- Look at the Label. Is it your medication? Does your name appear on the label? Is it the right medication?
- Open the Bottle. If the medication looks different, ask the pharmacist. Be familiar with both brand and generic names of your medication. Know the size, shape and color of your medication.
- Know Your Drugs. Be sure you know the purpose and dose of your medication and how often you should be taking it and whether you should take it with or without food.
- Ask About Side Effects.
- Stick to One Pharmacy. That way the pharmacist can cross-check your records for medication interactions. Make sure you tell your pharmacist what other drugs you are taking including herbal remedies.
- If You Are Unsure, Don't Take It. Never take any medication if you suspect an error has been made. Contact the pharmacy immedately. Contact your doctor if you have taken a medication and suspect an error has been made. Source: Massachusetts Office of Health and Human ServicesConsumers can file a complaint by completing a complaint form available on the board’s Web site(click on pharmacy board)Or by calling: 617-973-0865Or writing to:
Board of Registration in Pharmacy
Division of Health Professions Licensure
239 Causeway Street, Suite 200
Boston, MA 02114
Copyright 2008 by TheBostonChannel.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
