The importance of taking your medications as directed
Beyond prescribed pharmaceuticals, patients may find the need to take over-the-counter medications to help with symptom management. These include combination products that target multiple symptoms, such as runny nose, fever, body aches and cough. However, these combination products may also increase the risk of taking too much of a certain medication.
Evernorth Care Group clinical pharmacist Anthony Albert, PharmD, has guidance on how to strike a balance between treating symptoms and keeping safety at the forefront.
How to keep yourself safe with OTC medications:
- Know what ingredients are in each product. Dr. Albert suggests using the minimum agents needed to target symptoms and to closely check the ingredients that the medication contains. The Drug Facts label shows each active ingredient, the amount of the ingredient and the purpose for use. Comparing ingredients and purpose in each product you plan to use will reduce the risk of taking too much of one drug.
- Use the minimum effective dose and do not exceed the recommended dose. Following the instructions for use on the Drug Facts label will reduce the risk of an accidental overdose. Because OTC medications should be taken on an as-needed basis, doses of the medication may be skipped if symptoms are not present.
- Consider single-ingredient products when appropriate. For instance, if you are having one symptom only, Dr. Albert recommends considering using a single-ingredient product. Doing so helps reduce inappropriate medication use and possible side effects from medications that are unnecessary.
- Consult your pharmacist if you have any questions. As a clinical pharmacist, Dr. Albert finds this to be key advisement for patients. If you don’t feel confident reading the Drug Facts labels, are not sure which product would be best, or if you have any other questions about OTC products, consult with your local pharmacist for personalized recommendations.
Having a strong relationship with your care team—and leaning on the expert guidance and support of your pharmacist—can go a long way in helping you navigate your personal care journey and improving your ability to stay adherent. Remember, your care team is here to help you.
Evernorth Care Group offers experienced, dedicated pharmacy services to support medication adherence.
Watch this brief video to hear from our very own Rebecca Gray, PharmD, on the benefits of using an Evernorth Care Group Pharmacy.
To locate an Evernorth Care Group Pharmacy, visit our website or call 800.233.3264.
References:
FDA clarifies results of recent advisory committee meeting on oral phenylephrine | FDA
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4753966/
https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/the-common-cold-a-review-of-otc-options
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538502/
https://fda.report/DailyMed/9a0ad5d5-8fd9-468d-be2c-87c14d08b934