Test Your Medication Safety IQ

Medications play a big role in managing health problems. But medications can also be the cause of health problems. Take this quiz to learn more about taking medications safely. (Answers at bottom.)

True or False?

1. Medications are helpful, so the more, the better!
   
   
2. When I buy off-the-shelf drugs, I should check the packaging carefully.
   
   
3. If I am taking prescription drugs, it's safe to take any over-the-counter medications as well.
   
   
4. I can ask my pharmacist for a regular cap rather than a childproof lid.
   
   
5. Since herbal remedies are natural, they are all safe.
   
   
6. Pain medications are just a "band-aid," masking pain but not improving the underlying condition.
   
   
7. I should check the label of prescriptions to be sure I have received the correct medication.
   
   
8. Physical activity can decrease or even eliminate the need for many medications.
   
   
9. My doctors all exchange notes to keep track of my prescriptions.
   
   
10. If I am taking medication and start to feel better, I should stop taking my medication right away.

Answers to "Test Your Medications Safety IQ":

1. Medications are helpful, so the more, the better!

FALSE. Take only the medications recommended by your doctor—and only the exact dosage prescribed. If you have trouble keeping track of doses, a container with compartments can help. Or use a medication checklist.

2. When I buy off-the-shelf drugs, I should check the packaging carefully.

TRUE. Most medicines today come in tamper-proof packaging, such as a sealed box and bottle. Examine the outside packaging before you make the purchase, and check the inside seal once you get the bottle home.

3. If I am taking prescription drugs, it's safe to take any over-the-counter medications as well.

FALSE. Drug interactions can take place even with nonprescription drugs. When you begin a new prescription, find out from your doctor or pharmacist what other medications should be avoided.

4. I can ask my pharmacist for a regular cap rather than a childproof lid.

TRUE. You don't have to be a child to have trouble with those childproof lids! If arthritis or other conditions make it difficult to open safety lids, ask your pharmacist for a regular cap. You'll have to request this each time you refill your prescription—and, of course, be sure to keep all medications out of the reach of children.

5. Since herbal remedies are natural, they are all safe.

FALSE. Herbal medications may contain dangerous contaminants, and some can interfere with or cause bad interactions with prescription medications. Some herbal medications can be toxic in large doses. Always tell your healthcare provider about any herbal remedies you are taking.

6. Pain medications are just a "band-aid," masking pain but not improving the underlying condition.

FALSE. Some pain relievers also reduce inflammation. And treating the pain of arthritis can allow you to get the type of exercise that actually improves the condition.

7. I should check the label of prescriptions to be sure I have received the correct medication.

TRUE. While pharmacy errors are rare, they do happen. As soon as you receive a prescription, read the label. If you have any questions about the correct drug and dosage, ask your pharmacist.

8. Physical activity can decrease or even eliminate the need for many medications.

TRUE. Diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and other conditions often improve with increased exercise. Ask your healthcare provider about an exercise plan that's best for you.

9. My doctors all exchange notes to keep track of my prescriptions.

FALSE. If you are seeing two or more doctors at the same time, each provider should know all the medications you are taking, to avoid overmedication and drug interactions.

10. If I am taking prescription medication and start to feel better, I should stop taking the medication right away.

FALSE. You should take your medication for the full length of the prescribed treatment. It is also very important to complete the whole cycle of antibiotics. Also, do not discontinue a long-term medication without checking with your doctor

For More Information...

The National Institute on Aging offers fact sheets and resources about the special medication concerns of older adults.

Medline Plus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, is a source of information on thousands of prescription and over-the-counter medications.