SAFETY
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HIGH RISK MEDICATIONS High risk medications such as prescription opioids and blood thinners are powerful medications that can help with symptom management. These medications can be an important part of your treatment plan, but there can be serious associated risks if not taken as directed. DOs: • DO take medication as prescribed. • DO keep your medication in the original pre - scription bottle. • DO use caution when standing, walking, or climbing stairs. • DO store your medication in a secure (preferably DON’Ts: • DON’T drink alcohol with your pain medication. • DON’T double up on medication if you miss a dose or take more frequently than prescribed. • DON’T share your medication with others or take another person’s prescription medication. • DON’T drive after taking opioids. Opioids may increase drowsiness or impair judgement. • DON’T crush, chew, or dissolve extended- release medications. • DON’T stop medications without consulting your medical provider and Care Team. locked) place, out of reach of others (this may include children, visitors, friends and family). • DO notify Four Seasons if your medication is missing or stolen. • DO talk to your Care Team about any side ef - fects, questions or concerns. Risks of Opioids and Other High-Risk Medications • Overdose: There is a greater risk of overdose with older age, history of sleep apnea, taking opioids with alcohol, sleeping pills, or benzodiazepines such as Xanax, Ativan or Valium. • Side Effects: Increased sleepiness, constipation, nausea, confusion, depression, itching and sweating, decreased energy or strength.
CALL YOUR CARE TEAM IF: • You increase use of medication for symptoms (pain, nausea, anxiety, etc.) by one dose per day for more than three days • A refill will be needed in three – five days. • You should spill your medication or if you seem to be running out before the planned refill is due. • Gagging, choking, or coughing occurs when the patient is trying to swallow medi - cations. • Any unusual or uncomfortable symptoms occur that you think may be associated with taking medications – such as nausea, rash, trouble breathing, itching, etc.
866.466.9734
FourSeasonsCare.org
Four Seasons
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