Take the Guesswork Out of Managing Multiple Medicines

Managing multiple medicines can be a daunting task. But, by knowing a few key things about each individual medicine your parent is taking, you can help eliminate the guesswork involved in managing many different medications and making sure these medicines work their best.

1. Know the names

Medicines are often known by two different names: the brand (the trade name used by the manufacturer) and the generic (scientific name). Physicians and pharmacists often use them interchangeably, so be sure you find out both the brand and generic names. This is especially helpful when picking up a new prescription. It helps you be sure the product you're picking up at the pharmacy is, indeed, the one prescribed. Also, it ensures that your parent isn't already taking that medicine. If you have a question, ask the pharmacist.

You might be wondering why you need to worry about checking whether the pharmacist is giving you the correct medicine. The simple answer is that it's always smart to double-check. If you're taking part in your parent's care, you, your parent, the pharmacist, and your parent's doctors are all partners. It isn't enough to know that your parent takes "two yellow pills in the morning, and one orange pill at night." Everyone in the household should know the names of these medicines and what they do.