ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee RN, MSN

Know Your Medications

Dangers of mixing medications

ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee RN, MSN

If you are a Senior Citizen:

• You are probably taking over 5 prescriptions• Have more than one doctor• High risk of injury from mixing medications– Confusion– Falls, that break bones– Heart failure– Death

ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee RN, MSN

Who is responsible?

• The patient is responsible • You need to let all your doctors know what

medications you are taking• This includes over the counter medications,

home remedies, and herbal supplements

Never Share Meds

Never take someone else’s medicine

ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee RN, MSN

Have you taken any of these?Aspirin Motrin Ibuprofen Aleve Doan’s back ache

pills

Cough syrup Benadryl Laxative Milk of magnesia Tums

Vitamins Saw Palmetto Pepcid Decongestants Melatonin

Nasal sprays Prilosec Mineral oil Zantac

ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee RN, MSN

Why you should ask before taking

Many cold medications to relieve congestion contain Benadryl also known as diphenhydramine. This is also found in over the counter sleep aids. Physicians warn no to take this medication if you suffer from:• Glaucoma• Stomach ulcers• Enlarged prostate or problems urinating• High blood pressure• Heart problems

ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee RN, MSN

Innocent But Dangerous

Tums: Many of us have used Tums when experiencing heartburn, upset stomach. BUT taking Tums can make it difficult to absorb other medications prescribed by your doctor. If you find you are having frequent heartburn, talk to your doctor it may not be from that spicy dinner you ate, but instead may indicate other health problems. Before you self medicate call your doctor. Frequent heartburn may indicate:• Peptic ulcer• Reflux disease• Cancer• Heart problems

ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee RN, MSN

No Dumb Questions When and how should I use this new drug? What is the purpose of the medication? What should I do if I miss a dose? Will the drug interact with other medications I'm taking?

What side effects, reactions or warning signs should I watch for? Is a generic or lower-cost brand-name medication available? Tell your doctor if you are worried about the cost of your medicine.