Medication Myths Debunked

There are many medication myths that float around, especially on the internet. So we are here to debunk some of the most commonly heard of myths that could potentially be very dangerous.

If discomfort or pain persists, it is okay to take more than the prescribed dose

Taking more than the prescribed dose of medication is one of the most dangerous things that you can do. There is a reason that you are prescribed a certain amount of the prescription, your doctor bases this on many different things and taking more than the prescribed amount is never a good idea. You could easily accidentally overdose or even cause liver damage. If it is an OTC (over the counter) medication then take the recommended amount that is on every bottle and stick to it.

Natural supplements are safer than their prescribed counterparts

Most people hear the word “natural” and think that it automatically means “healthy”. With medication this is not always the case. Although if you are looking for something a little less serious that can help with small aches and pains, then a natural solution is never a bad way to go. If you are prescribed a certain medication by your doctor, there is always a reason that they gave you that specific ingredient that you may not find in any other counterpart

If you are feeling better, you no longer need to take your prescription medication

Contrary to popular belief just because you see your symptoms lessen or go away entirely, that does not mean that the problem is solved completely. If you honestly think that you no longer need to take your medication you must speak to your doctor before stopping your medication. Even if the problem may be solved, you may need to tapered off in order to safely discontinue taking the medication. For example, some medications may lessen the production of stomach acid while taking it. Like prilosec, so if you were to just stop taking it completely without consulting a professional your stomach could react by overproducing acid.

Health care professionals don’t need to know ALL vitamins that patients take

You should always make sure to tell your doctor of all the vitamins that you take, even if you may think that it doesn’t matter or that it won’t affect anything. Some ingredients in certain vitamins may not react well with another certain ingredient that may be in a prescription drug that the doctor would otherwise provide you, if they did not know about your vitamin intake.

It doesn’t matter how a pill is ingested

Every medication has a prescribed way of ingestion, in order to best benefit the patient. It is recommended to take all oral medication with an 8 oz glass of water, in order to avoid any irritation to the throat. Do not take pills with anything other than water, especially alcohol, which can with how the body absorbs the pill that you are ingesting. Also if you are told to take your medication before, during, or after a meal make sure to follow those instructions closely.

Just make sure to keep in mind that, if your doctor or pharmacists tell you something about your medication, it is for a reason. They will not waste your time by telling you stuff that doesn’t matter. Also, if you have any questions make sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist before proceeding, we recommend the Canadian Pharmacy.