The Importance of Medication Management

Millions of Americans take at least two prescription medications, and about 14% take five or more. Even though these medicines are often necessary to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life, taking any drug — prescription, over-the-counter (OTC), or supplements — can present risks. 

As a result, many people turn to medication management to better manage side effects and help ensure that their medications work effectively. But what exactly is medication management, and why is it so important?

At Broderick Healthcare, certified family nurse practitioner Kathleen Logan, FNP-C, offers medication management for patients being treated for mental health conditions and chronic disease. This month’s blog explains some of the advantages of this approach so you can understand how you could benefit.

3 benefits of medication management

Medication management helps eliminate some of the confusion that can come with taking multiple prescriptions. Here are several advantages of working with Kathleen:

1. Reduced risk of errors

Research suggests that 40%-50% of people don’t take their medications as directed. That might not sound serious, but even small variations in dosage or timing, or mixing medications that shouldn’t be combined, can significantly impact their effectiveness and safety.

Mistakes aren’t always intentional. Many older adults take several medications to manage various health issues. But without an organizational system in place, it’s easy to mix things up or forget a dose entirely.

Medication management educates you on proper dosages, dangerous interactions, and potential side effects so you can stay safe and healthy.

2. Improved health outcomes

Chronic conditions like depression, diabetes, and high blood pressure often require medication to prevent symptoms from worsening. However, many of these drugs must be taken at specific times or with meals to work effectively. Managing chronic illness also involves juggling diet, preventive care, and other daily health needs. 

Having a reliable system for keeping track of medications is necessary for long-term disease management.

3. Increased independence and quality of life

When you know exactly when and how much of each medication to take, you can stop worrying about side effects or harmful interactions. That frees up more time and energy so you can focus on what matters, like work, travel, or spending time with friends. 

Sticking to a medication plan helps you better manage chronic disease symptoms, which may reduce the need for frequent doctor and hospital visits. If you care for a friend or family member, having a plan in place offers peace of mind. When they follow it, you know they’re safe.

Simple strategies for success

Even with a medication management plan in place, it’s normal to encounter challenges. For example, you might forget a dose or accidentally take the wrong amount. The good news is that a little organization can help minimize these errors. 

A pill organizer, for instance, helps you keep track of whether you’ve taken your medications for the day. If you tend to forget doses, setting a timer on your phone can be a helpful reminder. It can also help to sync taking your medications with a daily activity, like brushing your teeth.

These small habits make it easier to build a routine so taking your medications becomes second nature.

Schedule a medication management consultation

If you take two or more prescription drugs, consider medication management. An individualized treatment program that Kathleen designs for you can keep you safe, protect your health, and provide peace of mind. 

Request an appointment online or call our office in North Reading, Massachusetts, at 617-905-1978.