Tips for managing medications

If you are managing a family member's medications there are several things you can do to ensure medications are taken safely.

Tips for managing medications

• Stick to the one pharmacist: Having a regular pharmacist is important. They will know a client's past history, be able to consult with their local doctor, organise and update scripts and maximise a person's PBS (pharmaceutical benefits scheme) benefits.
   
• Use Webster or blister packs: Ask your pharmacist about packing medication into handy blister or Webster packs. This system allows for safer dispensing and fewer errors. 

• Use medication reminders: You can purchase medication gadgets that alarm when a medication is due. Medication reminders can help people with memory loss or people on multiple medications at varying times.
   
• Create a list of current medications: A doctor or pharmacist can list a person's current medications and what they are for. Keep this list handy and update it regularly.
   
• Understand all medications: Read the consumer medication leaflet inside the medication package, keep them in a file for future reference.
   
• Know the side effects of medications: Some side effects can be serious, ask your doctor what side effects to expect and when a person should contact a doctor.
   
• Alert a doctor to over the counter medications and herbal remedies: Some herbal remedies can interact with other medications and can be dangerous.
   
• Organise outside help: Community nurses or private agency staff are able to visit a person daily to help with medication management. Ask your doctor about local service providers.
   
• Request a Home Medicines Review: Ask your doctor to refer you to a pharmacist for a Home Medicines Review. 

What is a Home Medicines Review ?

A Home Medicines Review (HMR) is a service that assists people living at home to safely manage their medications. A pharmacist visits the home and along with a doctor reviews all the medications a person is taking including over the counter and herbal remedies.

Home medicine reviews provide an opportunity to discuss someone's medication regime and allows for education and information to be shared between carers, a GP, community staff and the local pharmacy. It is a great tool that can help people safely manage their medications. To organise a Home Medicines Review ask your doctor. 

Tip

Keep an up to date medication list in case of an emergency or stay in respite care. It will provide hospital and residential staff with a quick reference of any current medications or allergies a person may have. Always include the number of your doctor for reference.

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