Manage Your Care
Managing Your Medications
Take the right dose, at the right time, safely
This is general education, not medical advice. Everyone is different, so always talk with your own doctor before making changes to your health, activity, or medications.
As the number of medications grows, so does the chance of a mix-up or an interaction. A few simple systems keep you safe, and a yearly review with your doctor or pharmacist makes sure every pill still earns its place.
What you can do
- Keep an up-to-date list of everything you take, including supplements
- Use a weekly pill organizer and set reminders
- Fill prescriptions at one pharmacy so they can catch interactions
- Review all your medications with your doctor at least once a year
Watch and learn
Your Guide to Managing Multiple Medications
Cleveland ClinicMedication Management in Older Adults
American Geriatrics SocietyMedication Management Tips For Seniors
Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterA pharmacist gives three tips for medication safety
Advocate Health CareQuestions to ask your doctor
- Do I still need each of these medications?
- Could any of them interact with each other?
- Are there any I could reduce or stop safely?
When to call your doctor
- New dizziness, confusion, or falls after a medication change
- A rash, swelling, or trouble breathing, which can signal a reaction
