Do not self-medicate

Let the doctors do their job. Even if your neighbor or friend swears by a drug, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best medicine for you.

Read the labels

Know the drug’s components, because you might be allergic to one or more of these. Or the same drug might be present in your other meds, which might lead to accidental overdose. Consult your doctor. You can also surf the Internet for information, but not for prescription.

Know your health

This is important for people with medical conditions, since the use of certain OTC drugs can make things worse for them. Someone with a bleeding disorder or stomach ulcers cannot take aspirin for headaches, for instance.

Drug interactions may also make your drug less effective, or increase the action of a particular drug, and these can do more harm than help.

Asthma, diabetes, heart problems, pregnancy and drug allergies are only some of the conditions that may limit your use of nonprescription drugs. Ask your doctor which ones are safe for you to take and which ones to avoid.

Don’t mix drugs

Some drugs, when combined with others, can produce nasty side effects. Examples include Paracetamol and alcohol, as well as cough remedies with DXM and antidepressants like Prozac. Never try combining different classes of medication on your own.

If you develop side effects, stop taking the medication right away.

Another false belief is that when a person taking drugs suddenly develops a rash or some other unusual reaction, it’s perfectly normal.

Unless your doctor says so, always assume it’s not. Stop taking the drug immediately and seek proper medical advice for alternatives.

Store drugs properly

Many drugs come in dark or opaque bottles for a reason: this keeps them viable for a long time. Don’t put them in other containers such as a plastic bag or transparent case, unless you plan to take them soon.

Also, check the condition of the drug as well as the expiry dates. If the blister packs have burst or the pills have started to disintegrate, throw them away. Better be safe than sorry.

Always call for help

If you encounter any situation in which someone has overdosed, the absolute rule of thumb is: Never attempt to perform first aid if you’re not properly trained—unless there’s someone else to guide you.

Act as support for the patient and keep a watchful eye on him or her.

Bring the patient to the nearest emergency room right away. If possible, bring the containers of the drugs to the hospital.

Stay away from a violent patient as far away as possible and wait for help to arrive.

For those having convulsions, protecting them from injury is key.

Clear the area, cushion their heads and loosen any tight clothing, especially around the neck. If they’re vomiting, turn them over to one side so it won’t block the airways.

Listen to your doctor

It sucks having to shell out a few bucks just so the doctor can tell you to take Paracetamol and get some rest. But that’s what doctors are for.

They know what you need to get better, regardless of how trivial or complex the treatment may be. It pays to follow their advice.

Angela V. Ignacio