Medication
Medications can make you feel better. However, all medications carry some risk and can cause a reaction in your body. The reaction can range from a mild side effect to a severe allergic reaction.5
Medications include:9
- Prescription drugs
- Over-the-counter drugs
- Vitamins
- Herbal supplements
Medications affect older adults differently because they stay in their system longer. Medication interactions are often a reason why older adults fall.
5 Questions to Ask About Your Medications1
- CHANGE?
Have any medications been added, stopped or changed, and why?
- CONTINUE?
What medications do I need to keep taking, and why?
- PROPER USE?
How do I take my medications, and for how long?
- MONITOR?
How will I know if my medication is working, and what side effects do I watch for?
- FOLLOW-UP?
Do I need any tests and when do I book my next visit?
For more information, please visit SafeMedicationUse.ca.
Medication Record
You can help to make your care safer by keeping a list of all your medications. Keep the list with you and show the list to your healthcare providers when you receive care.2
To create your own medication record, you can download a Knowledge is the best medicine Medication Record3 booklet or the MyMedRec app.4
Medication Safety
Tips on using your medication safely:5
MedsCheck Medication Review Program
Ontario funds the MedsCheck program to help you take your medication safely. If you qualify for the MedsCheck program, you can book a free meeting with a pharmacist to review your medications.8
Who can use MedsCheck
- Anyone who takes three or more prescription medications for an ongoing, chronic condition
- Anyone diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes (even if you are not taking diabetes medication)
- Any resident of a long-term care home
Learn more about the MedsCheck program.
Date of creation: February 5, 2013
Last modified on: May 18, 2022
