April 19, 2004, Spring cleaning? Check your medicine cabinet

NEWMARKET –The warmer weather puts everyone into a Spring cleaning frame of mind. York Region Health Services suggests that your check list should include cleaning out your medicine cabinet. Some tips related to medication safety include:

Look for expired medications or medications you no longer use and return them to your pharmacist to dispose of properly
Take your medication in to your doctor to discuss and review every six months. Your discussion should include herbal remedies, prescription medications, non prescription medications, as well as your use of alcohol
Make an up-to-date list of your medications and keep it with you when you are out
Never share medications with others
Keep medications in their original containers so that you know what they are
Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of the medications you take. Tell your doctor if you are experiencing any side effects
Use only one pharmacy
Instead of taking medication to help you sleep, consider alternatives like relaxation techniques, music, reading or gentle exercises
Don't keep your medications in the bathroom. The heat and moisture could damage them
Make sure you keep your medication out of reach of children and in a secure location
Some medications need to be kept in the refrigerator while others do not. Ask your pharmacist how to store your medication
Using more than four prescription medications has been linked to an increase risk of falling. Certain medications and combinations of medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness, faintness, and poor co-ordination, and can also increase your chances of falling.

Some questions to ask your doctor:

· Why am I taking it?

· Are there any alternatives?

· What are the side effects and which ones should I report to you?

· Do you need to see me while I am taking the medication?

· How often should I take the medication?

· When should I take it? With food or without?

· What do I do if I miss a dose?

· How long should I continue taking it?

For more information on medication safety or other health-related questions, contact York Region Health Services Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653 or visit www.region.york.on.ca

Contact: Wendy Lewis, York Region Corporate Communications Services

905-830-4444 Ext. 1238 wendy.lewis@region.york.on.ca