The Overuse of Prescription Medications

The Overuse of Prescription Medications Prescription drugs save lives every day. There is no question about the importance of medications. There was a time that a simple case of a throat infection, or a cut that developed an infection, could cost someone their life.

The introduction of antibiotics changed the world forever. Now, have we gone too far with the use of antibiotics?

Prescribed Antibiotics We have all grown up on the theory that if you go to the doctor, you are walking out with at least one prescription. The fact is, germs have become resistant to antibiotics, and the primary reason is that they are so readily available and used too often. When someone is prescribed an antibiotic, and they do not complete the entire prescribed cycle, they may kill off 99% of the bacteria. That sounds pretty significant, except that 1% is left behind, and bacteria can multiply at an astonishing rate. Before you realize it, the infection has returned, and it's stronger than ever. The 1% that survived the antibiotic treatment is now stronger, as is the bacteria that have multiplied and developed. There is a very good chance they will not respond to the same dosage previously prescribed. The only option is a higher dose of antibiotic, the problem is, at some point there will be no higher dose. For that reason, as well as one's own health, it is imperative to explain to patients, the importance of finishing all medications prescribed to them.

Related: Reducing Medication Errors Many times an antibiotic is not necessary. Conditions that an antibiotic will not treat are: • • • • •

Colds - a common cold is a virus, and an antibiotic has no effect on it.

Flu - it may seem like an antibiotic would help, but it won't. In fact, it can add to any feelings of nausea and upset stomach.

Viral Pneumonia - this is tricky because bacterial pneumonia requires treatment of an antibiotic, however, viral pneumonia does not, a physician will determine what form they are treating.

Coughs - unless there is an infection associated with the cough, an antibiotic is a waste.

Allergies - they can make a person miserable, however, antibiotics are not the answer.

Taking a course of antibiotics when not necessary makes medical treatment less effective for not only the patient, it affects society in general as the bacteria continue to climb the evolutionary scale.

Pain Medications Pain medications are a major invention. Pain medications certainly have a place in many lives, and can make life bearable. The problem surfaces when pain medications are overprescribed and overused. Even ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be overused, resulting in them being less effective. The best solution for over the counter pain medications is to advise the patient to take the lowest dose, and determine if the pain responds. In this case, less is better. Taking over the counter pain medications daily and on a regular basis will cause them to have less of an effect on pain, making the need for stronger medications seem necessary. A good suggestion for patients, when a mild headache is the issue, a brisk walk can be the answer. Natural endorphins are released, and it may be all that's needed to put an end to a nagging headache. Over the counter pain medications should be taken only when needed, and not as a routine medication unless prescribed by a physician.

Related: Reducing Medication Errors Prescription pain relievers are essential for many patients. They can be very beneficial for anyone following surgery, used for a short duration until the natural healing process begins. Cancer patients also benefit from prescribed medications that alleviate pain, for many these medications can make treatments tolerable. Unfortunately prescribed pain relievers are too often in the hands of those whom they were not prescribed for. This category of drugs is the most common of illegally sold drugs that there is. Court systems are full of cases where a patient has sold pills from their own prescribed medication. Prescribed pain medications can be addictive if not taken per prescribed medical instructions. Patients should be instructed to take only their prescribed medicines, and to properly dispose of any unused portion. It is not ok to share or to use a prescription for anyone other than the intended patient.

Psychotropic Medications Many lives have been changed for the better because of antidepressants or anti anxiety medications. Countless lives have been saved, and people that once suffered to struggle through a day, now have happy and productive

lives. Those that could not function due to stress and fear, can now also live with their anxiety under control. Right Behind pain prescriptions being misused and sold illegally are anxiety and antidepressant medication. The misuse and mishandling of this category of medication have made it difficult for those who need the drugs to actually obtain them. Always remind Patients of the importance of not sharing their prescribed medication. Not only is this practice dangerous, it can be illegal as well, and could contribute to an addicted person's habit.

Medications are intended to help a patient and to treat a condition. When no condition exists and the medication is taken, it becomes a potential problem.

Patients should be instructed to take all medications prescribed to them, and report any problems with the medications to the prescriber. Unused medications should be disposed of properly, and never given to another person. Medications such as blood pressure or cholesterol drugs should be taken exactly as prescribed, and always advise the patient to alert their medical team if there is a problem taking the prescribed dosage, they should never avoid taking medications without doctor's orders.

Medications can and do save lives, unfortunately medications can and do take lives as well. Taking medications properly, as prescribed is the only acceptable means of controlling drug overdoses, or severe medication reactions. Always be sure to get a complete list of all medications a patient is taking, and advise them to use only one pharmacy for all prescriptions.

Related: International Nurses Association Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter