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Medication Safety 101

April 2, 2025
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How many medications do you take each day? 81% of older adults in America (age 65+) take at least one prescription medication each day. 36% of those on Medicare take five or more prescription medications. Unfortunately, the more medications you take, the greater the chance of medication misuse. As we approach Medication Safety Week (April 1-7), it’s the perfect time to reflect on the vital role medication plays in our lives and how we can all contribute to safer practices. Whether you’re managing medications for yourself, a loved one, or in a professional setting, understanding the importance of accurate dosing, safe storage, and the proper disposal of unused medications is key to protecting health and preventing harm. In this blog, we’ll share valuable tips and best practices for safeguarding your health and the health of others throughout Medication Safety Week and beyond. 

 

Medication Misuse– this is a term that means taking medication in a way other than prescribed. Examples can include: 

  • Sharing medications. 
  • Failing to fill a prescription medication. 
  • Forgetting to take a prescription medication. 
  • Stretching medication to last longer or discontinuing use earlier than directed.  
  • Failure to follow instructions, missing doses, or taking double doses.  
  • Taking medications with alcohol. 
  • Using medication for addictive purposes. 

Medication misuse can be dangerous! Make sure you’re taking all medications as prescribed.  

 

Managing Your Medications 

 

Questions To Ask Your Doctor/Pharmacist 

  • What’s the name of the medication(s) I’ve been prescribed? 
  • Why did you prescribe this drug to me? 
  • What are the drug-free options for managing this issue?  
  • What can I take, or shouldn’t I take with these medications (food, drink, other medicine)? 
  • Are there any side effects I should watch for? What side effects should be reported immediately? 
  • Are there any precautions I should be aware of?  
  • What should I do if I miss a dose?  
  • Will the drug interact with other drugs I’m taking?  
  • Are there alternatives to taking this drug (generics, supplements, etc.)? 
  • Does the pill bottle come with a non-childproof cap or a cap that’s easier to access? 

 

Safely Disposing of Medication 

 

Community Resources  

  • Prescription Assistance 
    • A2Y RxPLUS Card (734) 665-4433 
    • Health Well Foundation (800) 675-8416 
    • Hope Clinic (734) 484-2989  
      • Can assist with discounted services and prescriptions at no cost (must meet eligibility requirements). 
    • Michigan Prescription Drug Discount Card (MIRx) 1-877-681-7540 
    • NeedyMeds (800) 503-6897 
    • Packard Health (734) 971-1073 
      • Pharmacy offers discount program for eligible uninsured patients.  
    • Saline Area Social Service (734) 429-4570 
      • Can help clients with copays for prescriptions filled at participating pharmacies (CVS, Jensen’s Community Pharmacy, and Saline Pharmacy). 
    • Washtenaw Health Plan (734) 544-3030 
      • This is a program through the Washtenaw Health Project that covers health care costs for low-income county residents who are not eligible for other insurance. Must be renewed annually.  

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