Taking multiple medications puts you at risk for a medication error. This can range from missing a dose to taking too much (an overdose). Managing your medication can help reduce potentially life-threatening errors.
The key to successfully managing your medications is through organization. These organizational tips will help ensure your medications are taken safely and at the right time.
To ensure medication is taken on time, keep a dosage schedule nearby that includes a physical description of each pill, such as “blue capsule” or “large white pill.”
List all of your medications, the times they need to be taken, and space by each dose, so you can check off when each is taken. For those meds that are given “as needed,” you may also want to include why it is taken.
Save a copy on your computer or mobile device so you can add to it if prescribed new medications, and print out more copies as needed.
There are several electronic pill reminders on the market of varying prices. You can input the name of the medication, how often you need to take it, and if you need to take it with food.
Some apps make a sound, like an alarm clock, to remind you to take specific medications. Other apps have an audio voice message feature that can be particularly helpful for people with vision impairments.
If you think you may need a refill on a medication that has no refills left, call your healthcare provider’s office as soon as possible to allow time for them to contact the pharmacist.
Tools such as a pill box or planner, spreadsheets, lists, and apps can help keep you organized and take your medications correctly.
A Word From Verywell
Managing multiple medications can be very stressful and lead to confusion. You want to do what you can to prevent any medication errors. In addition to the tips listed above, asking a family member or friend to help you organize your medications may be valuable.
