World Pharmacist Day

World Pharmacist Day - September 25

According to the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), September 25 is World Pharmacists Day.  What a great opportunity  to remember that the pharmacist is your expert on medications - more than the physician, more than your friends and neighbors, it's the pharmacist who is there to answer your questions about medication mixtures, potential side effects and appropriate and proper measurement.

Here are some tips:

·         Use only one pharmacists so they know all your medications

 

·        Don't change the dose or stop medication without consulting with your clinician and even your pharmacist

 

·        You are encouraged to read all labels and inserts but, if you start coming down with new ailments such as an upset stomach, achy joints, headaches or irritability, before seeing a new doctor check with your pharmacist about potential side effects

 

·        After your clinician tells you about your medication, ask your pharmacist.  The pharmacist is more up to date on warnings and new medications

 

·        Your pharmacist can help you with a discussion with your clinician.  If a medication doesn’t seem to be working for you, ask your pharmacist what he / she recommends so you can talk to your doctor about it

 

·        Be sure your pharmacist has in your record all your allergies and any adverse reactions to medications

 

·        Don’t ever be embarrassed to ask questions about your medication.  Whether you are a waitress, hairstylist, postal worker or auto mechanic, we all have our knowledge and skills.  Not understanding when or how to take medication is not something to be ashamed of.  ASK!

 

·       Consider choosing someone you trust to be your DMM, Designated Medication Manager

Don’t forget to visit www.ismp.org for more information. The Institute for Safe Medication Practice (ISMP) is the nation's only nonprofit organization devoted entirely to medication error prevention and safe medication use.