Medicines are often crucial for our health and healing, but they can also have adverse effects. Similar sounding drug names and misleading product names are some of the factors that can lead to medication errors and pose a risk to patients. An estimated five to ten percent of all hospital admissions are due to adverse drug reactions. If the medication is over- or underdosed or the prescribed dosage is not adhered to, this can lead to undesirable consequences for patients.
Interactions often also play a role here. They can occur between medications as well as with food supplements and foods. This can strengthen, weaken or even cancel out the desired effect. Even side effects of individual medications can be intensified when they are taken at the same time. Elderly people in particular, who often take several medications, should discuss possible interactions with their doctor.
The German Federal Ministry of Health, together with the German Drug Commission and the German Medical Association, has launched an action plan to improve drug therapy safety. The aim is to prevent medication errors and minimize the risk for patients.
How Can You Avoid Drug Interactions?
- Inform yourself: read carefully the package leaflets for your medication. Pay attention to information on side effects and interactions.
- Communicate with your doctor: inform your doctor about all the medication you are taking, including over-the-counter preparations and dietary supplements.
- Use digital aids: apps like mediteo can help you to keep track. You can import your federal medication plan (BMP, bundeseinheitlichen Medikationsplan), add medication you have purchased yourself and set reminders for when to take your medication. Thanks to the medication information from Therafox Patient, the app also provides information on side effects and interactions, instructions for use and information on duplicate medication.
More Tips for Taking Medications Safely
- Follow the dosage instructions: take medication exactly as instructed.
- Avoid duplicate prescriptions: check that you have not accidentally been prescribed the same medication by different doctors.
- Regular monitor: have your medication reviewed regularly by your doctor, especially if you need to take new medication.
By taking these measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of unwanted interactions and side effects and protect your health.
By the way: with mediteo premium, you can easily obtain information on possible interactions of your medication yourself – for more safety and peace of mind when taking your medication.
Sources
- BfArM – Pharmakovigilanz – Medikationsfehler verhindern
- Gesund aktiv älter werden: Wechselwirkungen von Medikamenten
- Aktionspläne AMTS – Arzneimittelkommission der deutschen Ärzteschaft
- Neuer AMTS-Aktionsplan setzt Schwerpunkt auf Digitalisierung – News – Deutsches Ärzteblatt
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