The Iowa Poison Control Center: Your Senior Safety Resource

Managing medications can be challenging, and many adults are at risk of taking the wrong medication, an incorrect dose, or even someone else’s by mistake. While many think poison centers are just for children, we are here to provide fast, FREE, and confidential expert advice to people of all ages—24/7, every day of the year.

Older adults commonly take multiple medications to manage chronic health conditions, which raises the risk of errors and medication interactions. Most adults over 65 regularly use at least five different medications. Follow these tips to ensure senior safety and prevent medication errors:

  1. Keep in Touch with Healthcare Providers:
    Discuss all your medications, including dietary supplements and over-the-counter medications, with your healthcare provider and anyone who helps you with your medical care. It’s important to understand what medications you take to avoid medication reactions.
  2. Use as Directed:
    Always read and follow the instructions on your medication label. Ensure you take the correct amount, at the right time, and in the proper manner (such as with or without food). Take your medication in a well-lit area, and wear glasses if necessary for accuracy.
  3. Recognize Medication Side Effects:
    Be aware of symptoms like dizziness, confusion, nausea, or unusual fatigue, which may indicate adverse reactions or interactions. Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any changes.
  4. Keep a Medication Record:
    Keep an updated list of all your current medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and vitamins and supplements. Bring this list with you to healthcare provider visits and the pharmacy.
  5. Ensure Proper Medication Storage:
    Keep your medications stored up, away, and out of sight to protect children, pets, and visitors. Avoid leaving loose pills around your home or in a bag or purse. Using a pill organizer can be a helpful way to keep track of doses and prevent mistakes.
  6. Safely Dispose of Unused or Expired Medications:
    Unused or expired medications should be disposed of quickly and correctly to reduce the risk of yourself or others accidentally taking the medication. Follow these tips to learn about drug take-back locations and other disposal options.
  7. Plan Ahead:
    Refill prescription medications early to avoid running out. If you have travel plans, consult your doctor or pharmacist about necessary medication adjustments.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications:

While convenient, over-the-counter drugs are powerful and require careful use. Common OTCs include pain relievers, laxatives, cold medicines, and antacids. Always read the label to understand the directions, ingredients, warnings, and precautions. Check active ingredients when taking multiple OTCs to avoid accidental overdoses.

Emergency Preparedness

Recognizing the signs of a medication overdose or adverse reaction can help save lives. Be alert for symptoms such as difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, seizures, or loss of consciousness. If any of these occur, seek immediate medical assistance.

For questions about medication side effects, interactions, overdoses, or accidental poisonings, call the poison control number at 1-800-222-1222. Keep our number easily accessible and share it with loved ones to ensure quick access to expert help when needed.