How can I organise my tablets better?
Many people are on many tablets and it can get confusing. So it is worth sitting down with your doctor or pharmacist, every so often, to go through them. Then you can check you (1) understand them, and (2) are taking them properly.
These are some things you can do, to help you organise your tablets better. So .. how can I organise my medication and tablets better?
Where to start
But how do you organise medicines and rankers? Think about how you currently manage your medicines:
- What positive things do you already do to mange your medications?
- What changes can you make that might help?
- How will you make these changes?
- Who do you need to talk to?
- After that, create a medication plan. We will deal with that next
Medication plan
- Keep your medication store in one place. You may need smaller amounts in your washbag for trips away.
- List all of your medication, how often you to take them, the dose, what they’re for and any side effects you experience
- Using this list, plan out what medication you need to take each day and when
- Keep a copy of your plan with you at all times
- Make sure your pharmacist reviews your medication regularly to make sure you still need them and that the dose is correct. If your medication changes, remember to update your planner.
Learn about your medication
When your GP or hospital consultant prescribes you a new medicine, ask them:
- When to take them
- What you should and shouldn’t take them with – such as alcohol or food
- Any side effects, both on its own or in combination with any other medication you’re taking
- Read the written instructions that accompany your medication, and keep them in one place – in a drawer or folder with or near your tablets – so that you know where to find them.
Pill organisers
If you’re taking a number of medications, pill organisers or ‘Dosette’ boxes can be helpful. You can fill it yourself, or with assistance from family and carers. They have separate compartments for the days of the week and times of day, helping you to take your medication on the right day at the right time.
Dosette box
Speak to your local pharmacist for more information.
Taking your medication
When taking medication, you should always:
- Take it at right time of day, and the dose recommended
- Check your planner, to make sure you’re taking them properly. Some medicines should only be taken before a meal, or with water or food
- Use your own supply and never take medication prescribed for someone else.
It’s important to let your GP or pharmacist know if you experience any side effects; as they may want to change the dose or try a different medicine for you.
Try not run out of tablets
Your GP should give you 1-3 months supply of tablets depending on what they are. So, it is important not to run out. You can do this by ordering more when you are within a week of running out. You can do this via the NHS app, your GPs website, or going to (or ringing) your pharmacist.
Over-the-counter medicines
Before taking any over-the-counter medication, or supplements, that you can buy without a prescription, it’s important to check with your pharmacist. Sometimes they can effect other medication you’re taking.
Preventing falls
The following medicines commonly cause side effects that can increase the risk of a fall:
- Anti-depressants
- Drugs for psychosis and anxiety
- Sleeping tablets
- Anticonvulsants (medication for epilepsy)
- Blood pressure medication.
Organising and planning
Creating a plan is especially important if you take these kinds of medication. A plan will help you develop a routine, and identify times when you’re at an increased risk of a fall.
Summary
We have described how can I organise tablets better? We hope it helps you.
