Every medication (commonly referred to as drug) is a poisonous substance that can be safely used to treat, cure, prevent, diagnose a disease, or promote well-being, when introduced to the body through any means. This implies that to achieve a positive healthcare goal, these poisons have to be used safely.
What does safe use imply?
Safe use of medication implies taking the right medication for the right disease, at the right dose, at the right frequency, for the right duration. It also involves taking the drug in the right way, abstaining or indulging in certain activities that may prevent or promote treatment success; and knowing how the drug may affect you in unintended ways (side effects) etc.
Yes, we get it too; that’s so much precision to be safe!
But here’s the good news! That’s the reason we have healthcare teams which comprise seasoned experts such as Pharmacists, Doctors, Nurses etc; who are there to assist you stay safe when using medications.
What to do?
Before using any medication including over-the-counter (OTC) drugs (i.e. drugs you do not require a valid prescription to purchase), speak to a Pharmacist or any other member of the healthcare team and provide all information.
This professional will provide you information necessary for accurate and safe use of that medication.
But I have used the drug before…
We understand you may have successfully used the medication some time ago for a similar case, perhaps without any advice. However, like we won’t advise you drive without a headlight in a dark city because your last trip was successful; we recommend you speak to a professional. Here’s why.
Certain illnesses share symptoms, so you could mistake one for another; your physiological state could be different, making certain drugs inappropriate; you could have just had a glass of wine or a grape juice, which may make your drug unsafe; or may not be aware of a better therapeutic alternative. The scenarios are endless and so are the chances of using the medication(s) dangerously.
Can’t I use the internet?
Of course the internet holds so much information but beware that being an unrestricted sphere, anybody and everybody can write a piece. This implies unprofessional, unverified, and false information could be obtained. Therefore, only use if and only if, your source of information is a professional authority. More so, discuss with a member of your healthcare team about these information because, translating a theoretical medical information into practice, isn’t always as straight forward.
Can I talk to someone at Olive Multi-specialist?
Oh yes, you can! Our world class healthcare team is always available 24-hours to provide you with world class care you will cherish. We will be glad to assist you use medications safely.
Finally, here are a few Tips…
- If you miss a dose of your drug, NEVER double the next dose to make up. It is highly dangerous. Call your Pharmacist or doctor.
- Ensure to know the name of your medications, if possible, make a list. Always inform your Pharmacist or Doctor about current medications.
- Never forget to inform your Pharmacist or Doctor about medications you are allergic to, if any.
- Water is still the best solvent to swallow your medication, ask professionals before using any other.
- Read your drug label every time you are about to take it, to ensure it’s the right drug, dose and time.
Udoh Michael
Chief pharmacist
