Safe prescription use starts with YOU!
Learn more about the proper use of prescriptions opioids and other medications here and what you can do to help your child understand the importance and responsibility that comes with the use of medications.
Safe Use starts with you
TIPS TO PROPERLY USE PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS AND OPIOIDS
Steps for the Safe Use of Prescriptions
1. TALK
Speak up and ask questions
Keep a list of all medications & supplements that you are taking and share this information with your doctor & pharmacist.
Mention any questions, concerns, or hesitations about a medication with your doctor before use.
Talk with your children about any medications they are taking and teach them about safe use of medications.
2. KNOW
Learn about your medications.
Know the risks and side effects associated with using opioids or other medications.
Understand what your medications look like and know how to store them properly in your household.
3. READ
Examine labels and follow directions
Only take opioids that are prescribed to you.
Do not take someone else's medication or give away your own medication.
Never take opioids in higher doses than prescribed or directed.
Listen to your pharmacist and doctor whenever instructions are given.
4. AVOID
Be aware of drug-drug interactions
Understand how opioids or other medications might interact with each other. This includes alcohol, other prescriptions, over the counter medications, and vitamins & supplements.
Multiple use of medications can be dangerous. Make sure your doctor is aware of everything you are taking.
5. MONITOR
Stay in contact with your doctor
Stay in contact with your doctor.
Monitor the effect of a medication on your body or others who are taking a medication.
Contact your medical provider if you need to change a dosage.
Reach out to your doctor or healthcare professional with any questions or concerns.
If your child or adolescent has a prescription medication:
Be certain that you are holding onto the bottle or source of medication.
Be certain that you are holding onto the bottle or source of medication.
Administer the dose and lock the medicine in between doses.
Administer the dose and lock the medicine in between doses.
Place the medications up and away and out of sight from everyone.
Place the medications up and away and out of sight from everyone.
Monitor your medicine cabinet or the place where your medications are hidden.
Monitor your medicine cabinet or the place where your medications are hidden.
Discard your leftovers properly at a take back location near you.
Discard your leftovers properly at a take back location near you.
For More Resources on Safe Use of Medications - FDA
EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS SUCH AS BROCHURES, ARTICLES, PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND MORE GENERAL INFORMATION
Safe Use Handout
Safe use starts with you. Prescription medications are intended to help us heal, recover, and manage pain, but taking them the wrong way can be harmful. Download our safe use handout to learn about the safe and proper use of prescription medications which can help you and those around you.
