Prescription Drug Safe Use
You can help combat the dangers of prescription drug abuse by using your prescription drugs only as directed.
Source: TakeMedsSeiouslyOregon.org
Safe use guidelines and tips
- Only take medication prescribed to you.
- Never share your medicine with someone else, or take someone else’s medication.
- Always read and follow the instructions on your medicine’s label.
Additional Safety Tips
- Keep a list of all medicines you take and share it with your doctors or pharmacist. Also share allergies you have, if you’re pregnant and any conditions you have.
- Learn how your medicine will interact with other medicine, both prescription and over-the-counter, and alcohol by asking your doctor. Call your doctor if a side effect is unexpected.
- Many medications can impair your driving ability which is both illegal, and dangerous.
- Monitor your pills and medicine. This will help you be aware if some is missing, and know when it’s time to refill prescriptions.
- When you travel, keep your medicine in a carry-on bag. Bring extra in case you’re delayed.
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist questions about your medicine and the instructions. Learn all you can. Know why you’re taking it and what the desired outcome should be.
Learn more at TakeMedsSeriouslyOregon.org
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Prescription Drug and Over-the-Counter Medication Safe Storage
Prescription medication is secured from the time it leaves the manufacturer until the time it’s dispensed at a pharmacy. At that point it becomes our responsibility to safely store medication at home. Safe Storage Steps More Storage Tips Learn more at TakeMedsSeriously.org
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Talking to Your Kids About Prescription Drug Abuse
Learn more about how to talk to your kids about prescription drug abuse in this resource from SAMHSA. Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
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