Prescription Safety
Appropriately taken, prescription medications have significantly improved the health of Americans. However, according to the CDC, the United States is in the midst of a prescription painkiller overdose epidemic with an estimated 44 people dying daily. Additionally, the CDC reports at least 2 million people in the United States become infected with bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics because of Americans over-reliance on antibiotics when not clinically indicated.
Take a look at the below FAQs related to appropriate use of any prescribed medication:
Question: When should I take an antibiotic?
Answer: Antibiotics are prescribed for some illnesses, not all, illnesses. A healthcare provider will determine whether or not an antibiotic is applicable for your illness. Viruses are not treatable with antibiotics. Bacterial infections can necessitate antibiotic use. Taking antibiotics unnecessarily is the main cause of antibiotic resistance in America today.
Question: Can I stop taking the medication once I feel better?
Answer: Any course of prescribed antibiotics should be finished by the patient unless otherwise directed by a healthcare professional.
Question: My spouse and I have the same symptoms. Can we share a prescription?
Answer: Prescription sharing is against the law and dangerous to your health. When a healthcare professional prescribes a medication to you they take into account your medical history and current symptoms in order to accurately prescribe the type of medication and the dosage. Your health status and that of your spouse are not the same. Your spouse may require a different medication, different dosage or different instructions. Never share a prescribed drug.
Question: I missed a dose, so can I double up my next dose to get back on track?
Answer: As a general rule, medication needs to be taken as prescribed. If you miss a dose, call the prescribing provider�s office or your pharmacist before taking a double dose of any medication.