Taking multiple medicines – how to stay on top of your medicines

With a new study out today showing more people than ever are taking multiple medicines, NPS MedicineWise has four useful tips for staying on top of your meds.

1. Keep a medicines list: Keeping a written list of your medicines is a great way to keep track of the medicines you are currently taking and why you are taking them. Remember to note the active ingredient of the medicine, what it is for, the dose and when to take it. Share and update your medicines list with your health professional when you change your medicines. NPS MedicineWise has a medicines list to download.

2. Use the MedicineWise app: The MedicineWise app helps keep track of your medicines. It can store a list of your medicines, schedule reminders and provide information on your medicines. It can also help people who care for loved ones who use multiple medicines. Download the MedicineWise app from your preferred app store.

3. Call the Medicines Line: The Medicines Line is a free service from NPS MedicineWise providing consumers with information from health professionals on prescription, over-the-counter and complementary medicines (herbal, ‘natural’, vitamins and minerals). If you have any questions about your medicines, call 1300 MEDICINE (1300 633 424) for the cost of a local call (calls from mobiles may cost more). Hours of operation are Monday–Friday 9am–5pm AEST (excluding public holidays).

4. Ask your health professional if you have any questions: Using your medicines properly is the best way to get the most out of your medicines, safely. If there is something you don’t know or don’t understand, or if you haven’t checked when something changes with your medicines, then you need to ask. Asking your health professional any questions you may have is the best way to get the most out of your medicines.

Our Choosing Wisely Australia initiative offers a useful 5 questions resource to help guide you in a conversation with your doctor or other healthcare provider about any medicines being recommended to you.

ENDS