To get the most out of your medicines, you should take them exactly as
prescribed by your physician. This will ensure that your health improves.
Unfortunately, four out of 10 people who take more than one drug don’t
follow their doctor’s instructions to the letter(I'm one of the four! GUILTY).
Experts say that about half
of all prescriptions aren't used correctly and nearly a quarter of patients don’t bother to have their prescriptions
filled. Among the elderly, over a third of all hospital visits is caused
by medication noncompliance.
So what can you do to make sure you take your prescribed medicines?
First, ask the right questions. Know if the drug has any side effects and learn
how to deal with them. If the drug is too costly for you, inquire if there’s a
cheaper alternative.
Doctors should ensure that patients understand what their illness or condition is and how the medicine can help them. Will the drug cure the illness or merely relieve symptoms? For your part, talk to your health care provider or pharmacist regularly about your medication. Understand why you’re taking a particular drug and what to expect from the medication. Never stop taking any drugs without informing your doctor immediately and always explain why you've decided to stop.
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