In the past two decades, the number of seniors who died from drug overdose has increased fourfold. Many older adults are at risk of making mistakes or abusing drugs, as they take four or more prescription medications every day. Additionally, some seniors do not follow their prescribed medication regimen because they cannot afford the costs or are confused on the directions.
Pharmacists are experts in medications and can help seniors with various health issues. They can advise seniors on how to prevent and manage chronic diseases, cope with side effects, avoid drug interactions, and reduce medication costs. However, not all seniors are aware of the role and benefits of pharmacists and may not consult them regularly. Some factors that may affect seniors’ use of pharmacists are their awareness, access, and preference. By being more informed about the role of pharmacists, seniors can improve their health outcomes and avoid overpaying and overdosing.
When it comes to managing medications, both physicians and pharmacists play crucial roles. However, their areas of expertise and focus can differ significantly, making it essential to consult both professionals for comprehensive healthcare. This article explores the differences between a physician’s and a pharmacist’s knowledge about medications and underscores why you should always consult your pharmacist about all medications.
Physicians and Medications
Physicians are medical professionals trained to diagnose and treat illnesses. They have a broad understanding of various medical conditions and the medications used to manage them. When prescribing medication, physicians consider factors such as the patient’s overall health, current medications, potential drug interactions, and the medication’s efficacy for the specific condition. However, physicians often specialize in particular areas of medicine, and while they have a broad understanding of medications, they may not have detailed knowledge about every drug, especially those outside their specialty.
Pharmacists and Medications
Pharmacists, on the other hand, are experts in medications. They have extensive knowledge about various drugs, including their compositions, mechanisms of action, side effects, and potential interactions with other drugs. Pharmacists are trained to ensure that patients use their medications safely and effectively. They can provide detailed advice on how and when to take medications, manage side effects, and what to do if a dose is missed. Pharmacists also play a vital role in managing chronic diseases by helping patients adhere to their medication regimens.
Why Consult Your Pharmacist
Consulting your pharmacist about all medications is crucial for several reasons:
- Medication Reconciliation: Pharmacists can conduct a thorough review of all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and supplements) to identify potential drug interactions, duplications, or omissions.
- Side Effect Management: Pharmacists can provide advice on managing medication side effects and can liaise with your physician to adjust your medication regimen if necessary.
- Medication Education: Pharmacists can educate you about your medications, ensuring you understand why you’re taking them, how they work, and how to take them correctly.
- Cost Management: Pharmacists can suggest generic alternatives or therapeutic substitutes that can help manage the cost of medications.
Conclusion
While physicians play a critical role in diagnosing illnesses and prescribing medications, pharmacists bring a different set of expertise to medication management. By consulting your pharmacist about all medications, you can ensure safe and effective use of your medications, manage side effects, avoid potential drug interactions, and even control medication costs. Remember, healthcare is a team effort, and both your physician and pharmacist are integral members of your healthcare team.