Prescription Drugs can be Helpful…..and Hurtful if not Monitored
Prescription drugs have evolved over many years and are now part of almost everyone’s life. What was the first prescription drug? Until the mid-nineteenth century nature’s pharmaceuticals were all that were available to relieve man’s pain and suffering. The first synthetic drug, chloral hydrate, was discovered in 1869 and introduced as a sedative-hypnotic; it is still available today in some countries.
How prevalent are prescription medications today? There are over 20,000 prescription drug products approved for marketing.
Every year in the U.S., more than 4 billion prescriptions are dispensed and the number is growing:
- 2021 4.69
- 2020 4.55
- 2019 4.38
- 2018 4.21
Almost 90% of older adults regularly take at least 1 prescription drug, almost 80% regularly take at least 2 prescription drugs, and 36% regularly take at least 5 different prescription drugs.
Those are the Facts – What Does it Mean?
Prescriptions involve many variables including dosages, timing, interactions, and side-effects. They are confusing for everyone. One pill twice a day, two pills, three times a week, one pill in the morning, and three in the evening. It’s difficult for anyone to sort it all out.
Pharmacists are supposed to be able to help but they are always busy when you’re at the pharmacy and almost impossible to reach on the phone. Some people are lucky to have someone to help, but many are not.
Taking the wrong pills at the wrong time is misuse.
Taking too many pills intentionally, painkillers in particular, is abuse.
Home Health is a wise choice for people who have a loved one that lives alone and needs help sorting out what pills and when to take them.
Is There a Solution?
The only realistic solution is to monitor the times and the dosages of prescription drugs, especially if the patient is unable to do it on their own. Qualified Home Health Care workers are trained and able to assess the plan of action, then make sure it stays on track.
Feingold Nursing Service home health aides and nurses can help if you have a loved one who may not be taking their medications properly. If you’re worried about the cost, call us and we’ll help you find a way to work it out. (561) 210-9096