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SAFE INTAKE OF MEDICATION

By Dr Mohd Izham Mohd Ibrahim - National Poison Centre,USM

Other then beneficial, the medicines produced in pharmaceutical factories can also result in side effects to the consumer.  Although scientists have maximised the outcomes and minimised the side effects by altering the chemical structure of the drug, they are still unsuccessful in producing a drug that is totally free of side effects.  It is estimated that 10% of side effects incidences occur due to drug intake. Therefore the ruling such as " The correct drug for the right patient in the exact dose via the correct channel at the exact time" is considered by doctors when prescribing medication for a patient. 

Guideline for the safe and effective medication

This guideline tells of the matters for attention during intake of medicines, be it prescribed or unprescribed drugs. When taking medicine, medical practitioners agree that it is important to pay attention to the health requirements of a patient.  Therefore the information on the drugs is available from the doctor, pharmacist or medicine label. Below are some things that should be adhered to when consuming medicines: 

You Should:

• Know the name of the drug / medicine (brand and generic) to be taken.

• Read the label on the bottle or envelop before consuming any medicine. 

• Follow the doctor's or pharmacist's instruction / direction regarding amount to be taken, time of taking and the period to finish the medication. Any changes  should be upon the advice of the doctor or pharmacist. 

• Shake medication in solution form (suspension) to ensure the contents are well mixed. 

• Use the correct and standard measuring tool when measuring drug solution.  " Teaspoon" available in the homes are of variable sizes.

• Follow the doctor's instruction regarding daily diet when under drug prescription because some drugs interact with certain food types. This interaction may reduce the efficacy of the drug. 

• Inform your doctor of the drugs prescribed by any and of drugs purchased from the pharmaceutical / drug stores.

• Inform your doctor or pharmacist that you are pregnant so they can suggest drugs that are safe for you and your baby. 

• Record the names of drugs (including vaccines), the dates and the purpose if taken during  pregnancy.

• Record all the names of drugs that have side effects and allergy on your or your family members especially the elderly and children.

• t of medicines or drugs of drugs that have side effects and allergy on your or your family members.

• Inform the doctor and pharmacist  that you are having side effects of the medication taken

• Make sure that it is either safe to drive or handle mechanical equipments if on medication.

• Ascertain the specific food or drugs that should be avoided when taking medicines prescribed by the doctor.

• Make time for all appointments  with the doctor to detect and ascertain the effectiveness of the medication taken. 

• Get the information and clarification from the doctor and pharmacist on any problems or complications regarding the medication.  Get the information in writing for future reference. 

• Discard all drug prescription after the expiry date to avoid any usage after the expiry date.

• Keep medicines in the appropriate place or in a suitable container. 

• Keep medicines in a safe place and out reach of  children.  This would help to prevent poisoning.

Source: “Penawar Racun” Bulletin  Bil. 5 November 1995 (General Bulletin  National Poison Centre, USM)