“I forgot to take my pills again!”

Ask the Pharmacist

By Robert Wojtas, BSc (Hons), BSc Pharm, RPh

You know the moment: you suddenly remember that you forgot to take your supplement or prescription medication. You can’t believe you forgot. Again. Such a simple thing, yet it slipped your mind. Rest assured, you are not alone.

Whether it’s a supplement or a prescription drug, most people at some time in their lives take one or more medications. Getting the most out of your medication means taking the right medication at the right time and in the right way. Taking too much or too little of your medication, taking it at the wrong time, taking it the wrong way, or not taking it for the correct amount of time are all reasons that you may not get the most benefit from your medication therapy. These actions may lead to further issues including side effects, a worsening of your condition, experiencing other serious health issues, or being unable to do things you used to do, all of which contribute to a lower quality of life.

Why do we forget to take our medication? Is it due to a hectic schedule, or is it possible that the side effects you’re experiencing are at the root of the problem? Sometimes a lack of perceived benefit, or the complexity of your medication regimen can be at fault.

If your schedule is hectic, or if you simply have too many pills to remember to take at various times of day, using dosettes or packaging your medication in blister packs is a great option. Simple things like scheduling an alarm or timer to help remind you to take your medication can work wonders.

All medications have the potential for side effects as well as benefits. Even though they vary from person to person, for most people they are temporary and mild. You should always contact your pharmacist or doctor before stopping your medication. Often, there are strategies that can be used or other options to be considered.

Long-term medications must be taken consistently and as prescribed for you to see the benefits. It is important to keep taking those medications even if you don’t feel the effects for some time. Remember, with some medication you may not always notice a physical benefit, but this doesn’t mean it’s not helping you. Sometimes it is through lab values or other tests that the benefits of a medication or supplement are realized. Taking your medications as recommended will give you better control of your medical condition and symptoms and lower your risk of developing serious complications

Other issues may come up that prevent you from taking your medication as prescribed. If you are having trouble opening up pill bottles or getting medications out of its packaging, talk to your pharmacist about options such as easy-open lids. If you are having trouble swallowing pills, discuss alternatives such as liquids or whether pills can be cut, crushed, or sprinkled. If you’re not sure about using an inhaler properly, ask your pharmacist to demonstrate its proper use. If you simply have too many pills to remember to take at various times of the day, let’s discuss using dosettes or packaging your medication in blister packs.

The most important thing to remember is to take an active role in the decisions about your health. Don't be afraid to ask questions and talk about your concerns. Be well informed about your medications and try to work with your doctor and pharmacist to simplify your medications as much as possible. Attending a Medication Review appointment with your pharmacist can go a long way to becoming comfortable with your medication regimen. Remember, the more you know about your medications, and the more you communicate, the better your chances are for avoiding problems and benefitting from your medications.