People who have bipolar disorder usually take a lot of pills every day. Here are ways to make sure you take the right pill at the right time, and learn what you should know about your medications.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: 5 minutes daily
Here's How:
- Always read the package inserts on new medications. If you find there may be a drug interaction with a med you are already taking, call your doctor right away.
- Save the inserts, or know where you can look up the possible effects and side effects of all your meds.
- When you start a new drug or have a dosage change on a med, pay attention to how you feel and behave for a few days to a week after starting, in case of adverse reactions.
- Consider keeping a med journal where you record your prescriptions and dosages and keep track of changes, and how you responded to them.
- Consider making a daily list and checking off the pills as you take them.
- Purchase a pill case or "med minder" that has compartments for days and/or time of day, depending on your own needs.
- Choose a day of the week or a time of day to put the proper pills in the proper compartments of your pill case.
- Set alarms to go off when it is time to take the next pill(s). Use clocks, watch, computer programs, cell phones, electronic organizers -- whatever works for you.
- If you always take certain pills with meals, put them in a little bowl by your place setting before the meal starts.
- For something attractive at home, think about using a spice rack to hold your pills. Re-label the bottles appropriately. These bottles are large enough to hold vitamins, too.
Tips:
- When you travel, always put your medications in your carry-on luggage so you will have them handy, even if your checked baggage goes astray. If you might run out, get refills early.
- Check your prescriptions at the pharmacy, if possible, to make sure the proper medication has been dispensed.
- Consult your doctor before mixing prescriptions with over-the-counter drugs or herbal supplements. Check package inserts for food interactions, too.
