Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Health Tips for March 12

Health Tip: Take Medicines As Prescribed

It's important to follow your doctor's instructions precisely when taking any medication, especially if you're taking more than one.

The American Heart Association offers these suggestions:

* Schedule a time to take your medication every day.
* Try to take your meds when you perform another daily activity, such as brushing your teeth.
* Use a day-of-the-week pillbox.
* Mark the day off on a calendar when you've taken your medication.
* Ask a friend or family member to remind you to take your meds. Have the person call at the same time each day.
* On a white board, write down the names of all of your meds, and mark the board when you've taken them.

Health Tip: Packing Your Prescriptions

If you're planning to hit the road this summer and you need to take your medications along, here are suggestions from AARP:

* In case of an emergency, pack a complete list of all medications you take, including those sold over-the-counter.
* If you're flying, pack medications in their original packages in a carry-on bag, instead of checking them.
* Take more medication than you expect to need, in case travel plans change or you run into problems getting home.
* Pack any medications that need to be refrigerated in insulated, cooled packaging.
* If you're going to another country, make sure you comply with that nation's laws on bringing in medications.

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