Pharmacist warns against medication non-compliance

A NORTHSIDE pharmacist has stressed the importance of taking medication in the correct way.

“A medicine works best when it’s taken as per the GP’s instructions

?, says Ryan’s Pharmacy, based in Kilbarrack.

“Not taking medicines in the right way can lead to increased side effects, cause other illness/symptoms and may even lead to hospital admission in more severe cases.

“Some statistics have indicated up to 20 per cent of nursing home admissions are also due to patient non-compliance (not taking medicines correctly).

“Not taking your medicines correctly may reduce the benefits of medicines resulting in no improvement or becoming even more unwell. Take High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) for example: studies have shown up to 75 per cent of hypertensive patients do not take their medicines as prescribed.

“Perhaps because hypertension can be largely symptomless and the patient feels no obvious benefits at the time of taking the medicines. Hypertension can be a major risk factor in strokes and heart attacks so it is vital that it is kept under control, especially if the patient has been prescribed medication.

“We have found patients don’t take their medicines for a number of reasons, the main reason being they simply forget to take their meds, which is understandable, especially if they are taking a large amount of daily medication.

“We at Ryan’s Pharmacy are here to help. We are happy to discuss your medications and different options that may be available to patients who have difficulty managing their medicines such as our FREE blister packing service to ensure you always take the right medicine and at the right time.

“Other reasons for this may include the cost of the medication, doubting the need for medication or side effects.

?

Ryan’s Pharmacy says the cost of medication may be remedied with the use of generic medication.

“Generic medication has the same active ingredient as the branded product and is often much cheaper so people should always look at this option,

? it adds.

If you require any further information about your medicines or anything health related feel free to drop into Ryan’s Pharmacy (Tel: 01-8399000), Greendale Shopping Centre, Kilbarrack, for a chat. They are open seven days a week and will be happy to answer any questions.