Learning about medications and more

8 ways to avoid adverse drug reactions

• Learn the names of all medications prescribed for you.
• When you see a new healthcare practitioner, provide a list of all your medications, including vitamins and alternative medicines.
• Be familiar with how your medications look and check them before taking them.
• Know the dosage and schedule for every medication you take.
• If you have questions about any treatments or medications, ask your pharmacist.
• Request written information about your medications.
• If you’re too ill to follow these recommendations, ask a friend or a relative to help you.
• Keep your family safe by keeping a separate list of medications for each family member.

3 tips to prevent antibiotic resistance

• Don’t skip doses or stop taking the medication before the prescription is finished.
• Remember that antibiotics should be used for bacterial infections, not viral infections.
• Never self-medicate with antibiotics that haven’t been prescribed for you.