Medication Safety
Having to take multiple medications to help maintain our health and manage health conditions is common as we age. Examples include:
- Medications prescribed by a doctor;
- natural health products like vitamins, herbs, and supplements (even though these are “natural”, they can contain active and potent ingredients);
- over-the-counter drugs.
If you are using any of the above medications, it is important to know how to take them safely to ensure they work correctly and do not interact in a negative way. If you ever have any questions regarding the medications which you are taking, always ask your doctor or pharmacist.
The following are some tips that will make it easier to keep track of your medication, take it safely, and avoid mix-ups and medication conflicts.
- To start, keep a medication record and always ask questions about your medications.
- Before beginning any new medication or natural health product, check with your doctor or pharmacist (You can call HealthLink BC’s toll-free 811 phone service to speak with a pharmacist. HealthLink BC pharmacists are available every night from 5:00pm to 9:00am, when most local pharmacies are closed).
- If consulting the internet to get background knowledge on your medication/products, use credible sources such as www.healthlinkbc.ca.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS & WEB LINKS
- Visitation Line: 604-438-4010 ext. 830
- Canada Pension Plan
- Retirement Pension, Disability Benefits, Death Benefit, Children's Benefits, Survivor's Pension: 1-800-277-9914
- HandyDart (everyday): 604-575-6600
- HealthLink BC (24/7): 811 or www.healthlinkbc.ca
- Seniors Health Care Support: 1-877-952-3181
- Seniors Distress Line (24/7): 604-872-1234 or www.crisiscentre.bc.ca
- Community and Govt. Services (24/7): 211 or www.bc211.ca