Common Medication Mistakes: Health Headlines

More than 131 million Americans, or 66 percent of adults, take prescription drugs, but not all of them use their medicines correctly. Each year between seven thousand and nine thousand people die due to medication errors. If you’re like most Americans, pills are a part of life. Many people, such as Ann Gwin, take multiple medications for conditions like high blood pressure.

Medications can be difficult to take, especially when someone is on multiple prescriptions. Dr. Daniel Munoz, a Cardiologist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, explains that the more medications someone is prescribed, the more complicated it can become to take them correctly. Unfortunately, many Americans try to cut costs by skipping doses, taking less medication, or delaying getting a prescription filled, which can be unsafe.

Skipping doses or taking medications off schedule can lead to dangerous consequences. For example, skipping beta-blockers can cause a spike in blood pressure, increasing the risk of a heart attack. It’s important to always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding medication use. Some medications, like antidepressants, can cause harmful withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly.

It’s crucial to avoid sharing medications with others, as prescriptions are tailored to each individual’s specific needs based on factors like height, weight, age, and medical condition. Medication errors can also occur in homes, with a child experiencing a medication error every eight minutes. Common mistakes include giving the wrong medication or dose, or administering a medicine that the child is allergic to.

Taking medications correctly and as prescribed is essential for maintaining health and preventing potentially dangerous situations. By following your doctor’s instructions and being mindful of potential errors, you can ensure that you are using medications safely and effectively.