Checkup for
Your Medicine Cabinet
1. Check your expiration dates—Prescription medications have
expiration dates on their original containers, but your pharmacist is required
only to put a “Discard by” date on the bottle.
This date is usually 1 year from the date the Rx is filled. Certain meds should never be used beyond
their expiration dates: oral nitroglycerin, insulin inhalers and Epipens.
2. Know the dangers of common painkillers—Some analgesics including Advil and Aleve can trigger
a heart attack or stroke. Ibuprofen and
naproxen can also increase bleeding risk and bump up blood pressure. Studies show that acetaminophen can cause
liver damage, especially when taken with alcohol. If your physician has prescribed powerful
opioid medications, such as OxyContin or Percocet, follow their orders strictly
on dosage and frequency.
3. Beware risky herbals—Herbal supplements can interact
with certain prescription medications, causing dangerous side effects. St. John’s wort can interfere with statins
and high blood pressure medications.
Ginkgo and ginseng can interact with blood thinning meds and increase
risk of bleeding. Kava has been shown to
cause liver damage.
4. Don’t overdose on everyday vitamins—Watch daily limits on Vitamin B6, Vitamin A, Vitamin
D and Vitamin C. Taking too much of
these everyday vitamins can have different adverse side effects.
5. Cut back on Allergy and Sleeping Pills—Studies have shown that those who take certain
insomnia and allergy medications long term—including such products as Benadryl
and Nytol—are more likely to have problems with memory and decision making,
plus have a higher risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Touching Hearts Senior Care is the
gold standard when you consider selecting a home care provider. Call us today at 251-445-4204 to schedule
your free assessment. Or visit us online
at www.touchingheartsseniorcare.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment