Safe Use of OTC and Prescription Medicines

When giving or taking any medicine, the following precautions should be observed.

• Be sure to give the correct dose at the correct interval.
• Read the label every time-always check for the proper dose. Pour liquid medicines from the side away from the label, so the medicine won't drip down and cover the label.
• Measure correctly.
• Know the abbreviations for Tablespoon (Tbsp.) and Teaspoon (Tsp.) and don't confuse them.
• Use the correct measuring tool for the recommended dose. For example: if the dose is 2 tsp. and your measuring tool only shows c.c.s or ounces, find another measuring tool. Be sure to use a measuring teaspoon, not a serving spoon.
• Check with the doctor or pharmacist before adding any new medicine. The doctor may not be aware of other medicines you are taking, so list the medicines you currently take, including OTC medicines. Ask the pharmacist about using any OTC medication if you are taking other prescription or OTC medicines.
• Use the child-resistant cap, and re-lock the cap after each use.
• Check medicine packages for signs of tampering.
• Ask your physician which OTC products you should avoid. Ingredients that may be safe for most people may be harmful for people with health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, allergies, asthma, or for people who are taking certain kinds of prescriptions. Ingredients in OTC medications can interact with those in the prescription medicine and either cause the prescription medication to become ineffective or create a dangerous situation. For example, products containing aspirin should not be taken if
• You are taking blood-thinning medicine, because aspirin delays blood-clotting time.
• You have an ulcer; aspirin may cause severe bleeding.
• You have asthma.
• You are 19 years old or younger (aspirin is associated with Reye's Syndrome).
• You are having surgery within two weeks (potential for excess bleeding).