What you need to know if you’re taking multiple medications
Taking five or more medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements, is known as polypharmacy. It can be challenging to maintain such a regimen; the potential for drug interactions goes up, and there’s an increased risk for side effects that can lead to emergency room visits and hospitalizations. Tips for success include getting all prescriptions filled at one pharmacy; keeping an up-to-date list that includes what each medication is used for, the proper strength, and dosing instructions; and using a pillbox with multiple compartments, such as breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bedtime.
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