HEALTH ADVICE – GETTING THE BEST FROM YOUR MEDICINES

It is not uncommon for some people to be on over 10 different medicines to combat a number of health related problems. This can cause a number of problems with patients.

1)    Having to constantly order tablets, sometimes on a weekly basis, as the quantities prescribed never seem to tally up.

2)    The elderly or housebound may also have difficulty in physically putting in these request with their local surgery.

3)    Lack of understanding by the patients of what each medicine is prescribed for and how best to take it, and how to identify potentially serious side effects.

4)    Poor compliance as it can become problematic to remember to take all your medication in the most appropriate manner.

What can your Pharmacist do?

1)    If you are confused about when to take your medicines or regularly forget to take them, your pharmacy will be able to discuss these with you in detail. If appropriate they can show you a number of compliance aids that may be suitable.

2)    These compliance aids have all of your medicines laid out and dispensed in a manner to make it easier for you to take your medicines.

3)    They can be provided to you weekly and your pharmacist can arrange for the ordering process for you so that you do not even have to liaise with the surgery.

4)    Your Pharmacist can also meet with you free of charge to do a full medicine review, and spend time going through the medicines you take, and ensure you know what they are used for and how they can help you. Please discuss this with your local pharmacist who will be able to advise on this service.

If you are interested in how we can help you with the above, either come in to see us or telephone on 01535 634727 or email us at info@crosshillspharmacy.co.uk