Know Your Medications
Dangers of mixing medications
ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee
RN, MSN
If you are a Senior Citizen:
• You are probably taking over 5 prescriptions
• Have more than one doctor
• High risk of injury from mixing medications
– Confusion
– Falls, that break bones
– Heart failure
– Death
ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee
RN, MSN
Who is responsible?
• The patient is responsible
• You need to let all your doctors know what
medications you are taking
• This includes over the counter medications,
home remedies, and herbal supplements
Never Share Meds
Never take someone else’s medicine
ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee
RN, MSN
Have you taken any of these?
Aspirin
Motrin
Ibuprofen
Aleve
Doan’s back ache
pills
Cough syrup
Benadryl
Laxative
Milk of magnesia
Tums
Vitamins
Saw Palmetto
Pepcid
Decongestants
Melatonin
Nasal sprays
Prilosec
Mineral oil
Zantac
ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee
RN, MSN
Why you should ask before taking
Many cold medications to relieve congestion contain
Benadryl also known as diphenhydramine. This is also found
in over the counter sleep aids. Physicians warn no to take
this medication if you suffer from:
• Glaucoma
• Stomach ulcers
• Enlarged prostate or problems urinating
• High blood pressure
• Heart problems
ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee
RN, MSN
Innocent But Dangerous
Tums: Many of us have used Tums when experiencing heartburn,
upset stomach. BUT taking Tums can make it difficult to absorb
other medications prescribed by your doctor. If you find you are
having frequent heartburn, talk to your doctor it may not be
from that spicy dinner you ate, but instead may indicate other
health problems. Before you self medicate call your doctor.
Frequent heartburn may indicate:
• Peptic ulcer
• Reflux disease
• Cancer
• Heart problems
ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee
RN, MSN
No Dumb Questions
When and how should I use this new drug?
What is the purpose of the medication?
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Will the drug interact with other medications I'm taking?
What side effects, reactions or warning signs should I watch for?
Is a generic or lower-cost brand-name medication available?
Tell your doctor if you are worried about the cost of your medicine.
ProCare Hospice of Nevada RM VanDee
RN, MSN