So you’ve seen the doctor – by telemedicine or in person – because of some health concerns and she prescribed some medication for you to take. Maybe it was for your allergy, ulcer or cold, whatever it is, you’ve taken the drugs but you aren’t feeling better.
Here are some things you may be doing wrongly:
- Poor Schedule Adherence
Sometimes, the things we overlook are the important ones. Medications are meant to be taken as prescribed by your doctor. This means that if you are meant to take them before meals, you must do so., if you are meant to finish the prescription, then, you must. Taking your drugs randomly without following the directives of your doctor will lead to them being ineffective.
2. Improper Storage
Exposing your drugs to sunlight, or keeping them in hot areas can make them less effective. It is important that you store your medicines in a cool, dry place (unless stated otherwise), and out of the reach of children and sunlight.
3. Skipping Doses
It is very easy to forget to take your drugs. Don’t worry, you are not alone in this struggle. However, one simple hack to solve this problem is linking your medications to your daily activities. For instance, taking your drugs after having your bath, or after brushing your teeth. Once you make this mental association, it will be easier to remember that you have to take your drugs.
4.Wrong Diet
Some types of food affect the efficacy of some drugs. For example, vegetables make warfarin – a blood anticoagulant- less effective, and this can be dangerous if you were prescribed warfarin. Also, the use of alcohol with some medications like those for diabetes can lead to very low blood sugar. Hence, it is important to eat appropriately when taking medications.
If you are guilty of any of the above, start doing better now. Your health is important to us. As work to ensure you have access to quality and affordable healthcare, we also want you to get the best from the care you are given.
Don’t be selfish, share this knowledge with someone!
By Dr. Okonkwor Oyor C.
