Medication safety tips: Dos and don’ts

Did you know that 50% of people in the UK do not take their medicines as prescribed? Whether it is a prescription medicine or an over-the-counter medication, these safety tips are a good place to start to get the most out of your medication.

Medication safety tips: Know your medications

What you don't know CAN hurt you. The more you know about the medicines you use, the better you can be sure you're using them properly. For everything you take, whether it's a prescription medication or over-the-counter medicine, this chart can help you understand what the medication does and how to use it. It will also be helpful if you request a Medicines Use Review (MUR) or medicines check up. This is an NHS service whereby you request a meeting with your pharmacist to talk about:

• The medicines you are taking.
• What they do.
• How well they work for you.
• How to get the most out of them.

For more information about the MUR service, ask your pharmacist. 

Medication safety tips: Remember these dos and don'ts

These safety tips can help you make sure your medication works safely to improve your health.

Five medication dos:

• DO take each medication exactly as it has been prescribed.
• DO make sure all your doctors know about all your medications.
• DO let your doctors know about any other over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbs that you use.
• DO try to take your prescription to the same pharmacy each time so they can help you keep track of everything you're taking.
• DO keep medications out of the reach of children.

Five medication don'ts:

• DON'T change your medication dose or schedule without talking with your doctor.
• DON'T use medication prescribed for someone else.
• DON'T crush or break pills unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
• DON'T use medication that has passed its expiration date.
• DON'T store your medications in locations that are either too hot or too cold. For example, the bathroom cabinet may not be the best place for your medication.