Medication Safety: Organizing Pills and Avoiding Mix-Ups

Many older adults take several medications every day. Keeping track of what to take, when and how can be challenging, and mistakes such as missed doses, double doses or harmful combinations can happen. A few organizing habits can make your routine safer and simpler.

Keep a complete medication list

Write down everything you take, including:

• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter medicines, such as pain relievers, antacids and sleep aids
• Vitamins, minerals and supplements
• Herbal products
• Eye drops, inhalers, creams and patches

For each item, note the name, dose, how often you take it, the reason you take it and the prescribing doctor. Bring this list to every appointment and update it whenever something changes. Keep a copy in your wallet or on your phone.

Use a pill organizer

A weekly pill organizer with compartments for each day, and for morning, noon, evening and bedtime if needed, helps you see at a glance whether you have taken a dose.

Tips:

• Fill it at the same time each week, in a quiet, well-lit place.
• Double-check each compartment against your list.
• Ask your pharmacist whether any medications should stay in their original containers, since some are sensitive to light or moisture.
• Consider pre-sorted packaging. Some pharmacies offer medications packaged by date and time.

Set reminders

• Use alarms on your phone or a clock.
• Link doses to daily routines, such as breakfast or brushing your teeth.
• Try an automatic pill dispenser that alerts you when it is time.
• Keep a simple checklist on the refrigerator.

Use one pharmacy

Filling all prescriptions at one pharmacy allows the pharmacist to check for interactions and duplications. If you use more than one pharmacy, share your full list with each.

Ask questions about every new medication

• What is this medicine for?
• When and how should I take it, with or without food?
• What side effects should I watch for?
• Does it interact with my other medications, supplements, foods or alcohol?
• What should I do if I miss a dose?

Get a regular medication review

Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review all your medications at least once a year. This is sometimes called a "brown bag review," because you bring everything in a bag. Medicare Part D plans offer Medication Therapy Management to some members, which includes a comprehensive review with a pharmacist.

Store medications safely

• Keep medicines in a cool, dry place, not in a steamy bathroom.
• Store them out of reach of children and pets, especially if grandchildren visit.
• Keep medications in their original labeled containers unless using a pill organizer.
• Use good lighting when taking medications to avoid mix-ups.

Dispose of old medicines properly

Do not keep expired or unused medications. Many pharmacies and police stations have drug take-back boxes, and communities hold take-back days. The FDA website explains safe disposal options.

Watch for side effects

Some medications can cause dizziness, drowsiness or confusion, which can increase the risk of falls. Report new symptoms to your doctor or pharmacist. Never stop taking a medication without talking to your doctor first.

For caregivers

If you help someone with medications, keep a log of doses given, attend appointments when possible and communicate changes to all their doctors and their pharmacist.