Steps to Prevent Medication Errors at Home
According to the FDA, more than 100,000 Americans annually suffer from complications due to preventable medication errors. Medication errors can occur at any level of medical care—administration, prescription, or ingestion. Here are some ways to protect yourself and your family from medication errors at home.
Stop Errors at Home
Make a list of the medications you are currently taking. Note the dosage, how often you take them, any imprints on the pill and the name of the pharmacy where the prescription was filled. Also, note any over the counter (OTC) medications, vitamins and herbal supplements that you take regularly.
Keep medications in their original containers, as many pills look similar. This will help you differentiate between various drugs.
Never take someone else’s medication.
Read the dosage instructions prior to taking medication to determine how to administer it properly.
Always have the lights on when taking medication.
Store medications out of a child’s reach.
Keep your family’s medications stored separately from pet medications to avoid confusing the two.
Store ointments and creams away from your toothpaste.
Never chew, crush or break tablets or capsules, unless instructed by a doctor.
Use only the measuring cup provided for liquid medications; do not use kitchen measuring utensils.
Never store medications in direct sunlight or in the bathroom.
For more information, visit: Working to Reduce Medication Errors | FDA
The information provided is for educational purposes and should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any conditions. Consult with your medical provider for diagnosis and treatment of all medical conditions. Call 911 for medical emergencies.