Medication Safety Tips | Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare
العربية

News & Events

Medications are an essential aspect of health care. For some people, taking medications is a part of their daily routine. Physicians prescribe them to treat various health conditions and alleviate symptoms. For example, they are taken to lower blood pressure, cure infections, and relieve pain. However, medications do sometimes cause serious harm if misused. No matter what medicine your doctor prescribes, it's always important to be safe and follow medication safety measures.

Savera Arain and Hoor Alhazza from  Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare's pharmacy services department would like to share these tips with you. 

Make a list of medications you take and bring it with you to every doctor’s appointment.

The list should also include the following information about specific drugs:

  • Name and strength of the medication
  • Dosage instructions
  • What you are taking it for
  • When did you start taking it
  • Over-the-counter medicines, herbal preparations and supplements that you take regularly or on occasion.

 

One of the most important things about taking medication safely is correctly reading and following the directions on the label. It may seem like a lot of information, but reading it will ensure that you take the medication correctly.

  • If you don’t understand the directions on the label, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you. Take the medication exactly as directed, at the right time, and for the full length of time prescribed by the doctor.
  • It is vital to read the medication's expiration date on the label in a well-lit area to avoid mistakes.
  • A common error observed with liquid medication is taking the wrong dose. To avoid this, always use the dosing device that comes with the medicine, such as a syringe or a dosing cup. Household measuring devices such as kitchen spoons should never be used for liquid medications. They are inaccurate and may deliver more or less than prescribed.
  • Never take someone else’s medication. You don’t know if it will interact with your medications, the dose may be wrong for you, you may be allergic to it, or you may not need it.

 

  • You can find the instructions for medication storage on the labels since different medications have varying storage requirements. For most medications, the best way is to store them up and away in a cool, dry place on a higher shelf or storage box.
  • Keep your medications out of direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing them in bathroom cabinets because the heat and moisture may cause them damage.
  • Keep medications in their original containers and never remove the label from the medication container. Many pills look alike, so by keeping them in their original containers, you will know which medication and how to take them.
  • Always keep medications in their original bottles and ensure the medication container is always sealed and out of the reach of children. Children are especially at risk of accidental poisoning and may take medicine because it looks like candy. It is always good to keep the number of poison control ready, just in case.
  • Don’t store your medications with other family members' medicines.

 

The best way to dispose of expired, unwanted, or unused medicines is through a drug take-back program. Check with your hospital or pharmacy if they offer a drug take-back option. These take-back locations may offer on-site medication drop-off boxes, such as the enviro-green initiative at all JHAH pharmacy locations, where expired or unused medications are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. 

If the take-back program is unavailable, you can dispose of the medications at home, depending on their type, by flushing them down the sink or toilet or throwing them in household trash.

To find out if the medication you are on can be flushed, check the label or the patient information leaflet of your prescription or consult the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s list of medicines recommended for disposal by flushing. 

If you don’t have a medication take-back program available and your medication is not on the flush list, you can dispose of them in with the household trash by first sealing them in a plastic bag before throwing them in the trash.

Place all needles and other sharps in a sharp disposal container immediately after using them. This will reduce the risk of needle sticks, cuts, and punctures from loose sharps. Sharp disposal containers should be kept out of the reach of children and pets.

Remove all personal identification, including the prescription number, from prescription bottles by covering it with a marker or scratching it off before disposing of them

 

Useful information

Allergies and side effects

Know your medication allergies and side effects and report unusual side effects to a healthcare provider immediately. 

Pregnancy or nursing

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing a baby.

Medications interact

Know how your medications interact with each other and any nonprescription medications or herbals you may take, including cold remedies and vitamins.

Severe allergic reaction

If you get a rash, start itching, vomiting, or have trouble breathing after starting a medication, get emergency medical care immediately, as you may be showing signs of a severe allergic reaction.

Renew

Renew your medications in advance, so you don't run out, and know what to do if you miss a dose.

Medication Safety Tips

The more information you have about using your medications safely, the better you can prevent medication errors and care for yourself

For medication-related inquiries, you may contact Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare call center by selecting pharmacy services extension and requesting a video call with the pharmacist. Detailed instructions on your medication are also accessible via MyChart.

Antibiotics Safety

Antibiotics are powerful medicines that fight bacterial infections. Used properly, antibiotics can save lives. They either kill bacteria or keep them from reproducing. Your body’s natural defenses can usually take it from there.

Antibiotics do NOT fight infections caused by viruses, such as:
• Colds
• Flu
• Most coughs and bronchitis
• Sore throats, unless caused by strep

If a virus is making you sick, taking antibiotics may do more harm than good. You increase the chance that bacteria in your body will be able to resist antibiotics each time you take them. Later, you could get or spread an infection that those antibiotics cannot cure.

When you take antibiotics, follow the directions carefully. It is important to finish your medicine, even if you feel better.

Do NOT save antibiotics for later or use someone else’s prescription. These steps can help you prevent antibiotic resistance.

This content is for informational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a healthcare professional. It is important that you rely on the advice of a healthcare professional for your specific condition.

Additional Resoruces

Antibiotic safety

Using medications safely

image

World Breastfeeding Week

July 31, 2023

JHAH joins the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action and the MOH in supporting World Breastfeeding Week

image

How to sleep better

November 19, 2018

A good night’s sleep can help repair damaged heart and blood vessels. We have simple tips to help you sleep better

image

The fight against breast cancer

November 19, 2018

The good, and bad news about breast cancer – and how to fight it

image

Tackling the pain of sickle cell

November 19, 2018

Find out how changes to how we manage the pain of sickle cell disease have led to a massive drop in emergency care and hospitalization

image

Immune System Boosting Meal Plans

April 08, 2020

A few ideas for a good nutrition program that can help strengthen your immune system

image

Tips to Strengthen your Immune System

April 08, 2020

There are many health and nutrition tips that can boost your immune system

image

Top Tips to Controlling Your Diabetes

December 14, 2020

The Kingdom is the second in the Middle East and the seventh globally in the rate of Type 2 diabetes, find out how you can take control of your diabetes and lead a healthy life

image

Protect Yourself from Sun Exposure

July 12, 2021

Health issues related to sun exposure and how you can protect yourself

image

Nutritional Values of Fruits in Summer Season

July 12, 2021

Include fruits in your daily menu, in whichever way you like, and stay healthy

image

Survive a heart attack when alone

December 02, 2021

Heart attacks often occur when people are alone. Knowing what to do when heart attack symptoms come on can save your life

image

Obesity Preventive Tips

March 01, 2022

Encouraging people who suffer from obesity to take part in safe solutions to weight loss, lifestyle change, and weight maintenance

image

Staying cool and healthy during the summer

May 22, 2022

We tend to forget that the sun’s shine and brightness can be quite harmful during the summer. Tips to stay healthy and cool during summer

image

Keratoconus diseases

June 09, 2022

Keratoconus is an eye disease that affects the Cornea, the clear transparent part of the eye. This disease causes progressive thinning and protrusion of the cornea giving it a conical shape.

image

Successful Speech Therapy

October 20, 2022

Read about stuttering treatment

image

World Alzheimer’s Day

September 21, 2022

Learn about Alzheimer’s disease, it's symptoms, causes and risk factors, and what to do if you have Alzheimer's disease

image

Fight Breast Cancer Tips

November 11, 2018

Proper nutrition and exercise play important roles in reducing the risk of breast cancer

image

Antibiotics

November 17, 2022

Can save lives by either killing bacteria or preventing them from reproducing.

image

Effective Medication Depends on Efficient Communications

January 01, 2024

Collecting your medication from the pharmacist is not just a medication transaction but an opportunity to enhance your understanding of the medication and better care for your health.

image

From Prediabetes to Normal Blood Sugar

March 20, 2024

JHAH Tawazon Program works with pre-diabetic patients to help them modify their lifestyle to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes

image

Make the most of your Pharmacy Visit

April 08, 2024

Here are a few essential points to discuss with your pharmacist to better understand your medication to ensure your wellbeing.

image

Autism & Id Holidays

April 08, 2024

A few tips to help parents of children with autism enjoy a happy Eid with family and friends.

image

The Four Cs of Food Safety

June 04, 2024

Four simple and practical guidelines that will help you to keep safe from food-borne diseases in your kitchen

image

Save lives, donate blood

June 10, 2024

Read our expert advice on blood donation guidelines and how you can play a role in saving lives

image

Essential Tips to Safeguard Medications in Summer

July 14, 2024

Protect your medications against the heat of summer with a few simple tips

image

Importance of Consuming a Healthy Breakfast

July 14, 2024

Start your day with nutritious foods to boost your energy and metabolism levels

image

Tips for Healthier Sweets

July 14, 2024

JHAH Clinical Nutrition and Food Services Unit is here to help you make your sweets healthier, lighter and heart friendly

image

Asthma Inhaler Essentials: Techniques for Effective Use

September 15, 2024

Important techniques to ensure effective delivery of medications to the lungs

image

Recognizing Dehydration When Spending Time Indoors

September 12, 2024

Signs of dehydration indoors, symptoms to watch, and tips to stay hydrated even without thirst.

image

Al-Hasa Health Center Performs First Triple ENT Surgery

September 12, 2024

Three ENT surgeries significantly improve the breathing of a 21-year-old patient.

image

Colon Cancer Screening: A Crucial Step for Your Health

September 16, 2024

Colon cancer screening can detect the disease in its early and treatable stages

image

Adapting to Heat: Skin Care Tips

September 16, 2024

Scientifically backed tips to keep your skin in top condition.

image

Skin Care for Healthy Skin

September 17, 2024

Enjoy being outdoors while keeping your skin healthy, protected and radiant

image

Winter Wellness

November 05, 2024

Discover key tips to prevent infections this flu season and effective home remedies to manage cold symptoms.

image

The Importance of Vitamin D in Human Life

November 05, 2024

Explore the vital role of vitamin D in health and learn how to maintain adequate levels through diet and sunlight.

image

Breast Cancer: Know It, to Beat It

November 05, 2024

Explore essential insights on breast cancer, its risks, symptoms, and treatment options.

image

International COPD Day

November 05, 2024

Join us for International Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Day as we raise awareness and clear misconceptions.

image

Fall Prevention Tips

November 05, 2024

Explore the risks of falling and learn key effective prevention strategies.

image

Fight Anemia and Power up with Iron Rich Food

November 05, 2024

Iron deficiency anemia, its causes, symptoms and effective dietary strategies.

image

The Art of Pillow Selection

November 05, 2024

Discover the importance of selecting the right pillow for alleviating neck and shoulder pain and enhancing sleep quality.

image

Infection Prevention and Control Guidelines

November 05, 2024

Discover essential practices for reducing infection risks. Stay informed and protect your health and the health of others

Emergency Call 911 911