Medication Review
Reviewing medications will keep you on top of any concerns you may have, or any changes that might reduce the effectiveness of your medication.
Importance of reviewing long-term prescriptions:
It is important to remember that even if you have been on the same medication for some time, changes can still take place which can reduce its effectiveness. For instance, you may have another medicine prescribed to you, in which case you need to be sure that both medicines are working well for you when used together. You may start taking new supplements, develop other conditions, require antibiotics, or start noticing possible side-effects.
By keeping your medication regularly updated and reviewed, you can be sure that your medications are working as they should. In some cases, it may be that you no longer need to take medication, or it could be necessary to reduce or increase the amount you are taking.
How to organise a medication review
Medicine reviews can be performed by both pharmacists and your family doctor. Pharmacists can review during which they can check how you are getting on with your medication. If your pharmacist feels that there are any changes that need to be made, you can then go on to book an appointment with your physician to have your prescription amended accordingly.
Although you can talk to your pharmacist in confidence about any medical issues without making an appointment, you can book an appointment for reviewing your medications, which will take place in their private consultation area. At the appointment, you can discuss any concerns, possible changes to medication, and things which you think may affect how your medication is working.
What happens during a medications review?
During your review, you will need to discuss all of your current medication and any supplements you may be taking. The appointment is also your opportunity to voice any concerns you may have, from side-effects or reduced efficacy, to trouble swallowing your tablets, or to just let your doctor know that things are going well. It is important to be honest with your medical professional when reviewing medication so that they are given a clear picture of how well the medication is working. At the end of your review, you can arrange a date or time-frame for the next review and your doctor can prescribe enough medication for the interim, thereby reducing the risk of any medication going to waste.
If you have not had your medicines reviewed for some time, we recommended that you make an appointment with your pharmacist as soon as possible. Contact us today and BOOK YOUR FREE APPOINTMENT TODAY.