What Is Medication Management & Why Is It So Important?

Over 130 million Americans take prescription medication, which accounts for over 65% of all adults in the United States. Keep in mind, that doesn’t include the millions of other Americans that use over-the-counter drugs on any given day. Some say utilization is at an all-time high.

Not only that, but there are more than 20,000 prescription drugs approved for marketing by the FDA and millions of people have reported taking multiple medications at once. According to the CDC, nearly 25% of Americans have used at least three prescription drugs in the past 30 days.

Medication is viewed as a lifeline for millions of people all around the world. Without it, many people would see their quality of life deteriorate over time and others would risk death if they can’t get the relief they so desperately need. For these people, medication management is vital.

WHAT IS MEDICATION MANAGEMENT?

Medication management is exactly what it sounds like – it’s the management of a patient’s medication treatment by a trusted health professional. It’s designed to ensure the safety and health of each individual patient, especially when taking multiple medications at the same time.

While medication is often the difference between life and death – or at least a quality life and one full of suffering – it almost always comes with some risk. With medication management, patients can medicate with confidence, knowing the various factors and risks are being accounted for.

There are three main stages to medication management – the initial evaluation of medication need, the supply of the right medication, and the continued monitoring of that medication’s effectiveness. The main goal and desired outcome is a reduction or elimination of symptoms.

WHY IS MEDICATION MANAGEMENT SO IMPORTANT?

Medication management plays an essential role in the treatment of many different conditions. It’s mostly designed for those that take a combination of different medications to treat a variety of different conditions. Ensuring the safety of each patient is always at the top of the priority list.

What most people don’t realize is that some medications don’t mix well with others. Not only that, but the same medication can result in adverse reactions, drug interactions, and outcomes in different people. Just because a medication works well for one patient, doesn’t mean it’ll work well for everyone.

In order to fully and successfully treat a patient, doctor’s must take into account a variety of factors when determining the right medication, the right dosage, and the right time to take that medication. If the factors aren’t accounted for, the patient could continue to suffer health complications and struggle with mental health.

WHAT ARE THE 5 RIGHTS OF MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION?

The 5 Rights of Medication Administration is a set of standards and rules that were created by experts. Doctors and health professionals are expected to follow the 5 Rights of Medication Administration when prescribing medication to a patient – no matter what condition they have.

Let’s take a look at the highly-coveted 5 Rights of Medication Administration:

1. The Right Patient – this one might go without saying, but you should always make sure the name on the bottle matches the patient it’s supposed to go to. This is especially true for households that have multiple people taking different medications on a regular basis.
2. The Right Drug – there are thousands of different types and brands of prescription drugs out there. Prescribing or taking the wrong drug can lead to further complications and even death. Always double check that you’re giving the right drug to the right patient.
3. The Right Dose – taking too much of a certain drug can prove to be fatal, which is often the case in an overdose. On the flip side, taking too little of the right drug can result in an ineffective treatment plan. Always double check that you’re taking the proper dose.
4. The Right Route – there are a variety of different types of medication. Some must be applied via the eyes, others by the mouth, and some by the ear. Since every medication has an intended use, it’s important that each patient uses it that way if they want results.
5. The Right Time – some medications are best taken in the morning, while some at night. Some work best when taken with a meal, while others on an empty stomach. Before taking medication, make sure you’re taking it at the right time and the right frequency.

When followed correctly, the 5 Rights of Medication Administration ensures each patient receives the treatment and the results desired. There’s nothing more important than putting patients in a position to succeed when prescribing medication and monitoring the results with a medication management plan.

HOW TO ENSURE SUCCESS WITH MEDICATION MANAGEMENT

Medication management doesn’t come easy, but that’s why you should enlist the help of a true professional when managing your treatment. They ensure you take the right drug and the right dosage at the right time. This is often the recipe for success when monitoring medication needs.

Here are some proven tips to help you better manage your medication:

• Always follow the doctor’s directions when taking medication.
• Always double check the label to ensure you have the right medication.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions – in fact, it’s encouraged by all doctors.
• It’s always best to pick up all your medications at the same pharmacy.
• Make sure your refills are filled and ready ahead of time.
• If you experience any new symptoms when taking prescription medications, write them down and let your doctor know immediately.
• Use an alarm, pill dispenser, pill organizer, timer, and written list to ensure you take the right medication at the right time.
• When in doubt, contact your health provider and follow their instructions.
• Schedule an annual medication management check-up to ensure desired results are being met.

Managing a medication treatment plan can be a difficult task and uphill battle for anyone, but especially those that have multiple medications for different conditions. If you’re ready to take better control of your treatment and receive the results you desire with medication, contact Colorado Recovery Solutions today!

We can’t wait to help you get the much-needed relief that you so desperately deserve with medication therapy management services.