By Gerald Subar, Pharm.D.
Director of Pharmacy, Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital

While the war on drugs generally refers to illicit or street drugs, there are actually more problems involving the use of both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Specifically, problems may occur even when non-narcotic drugs, such as blood pressure medications, are used inappropriately or in the wrong combinations.

Most people don't really keep track of their medications as well as they should, so if they get ill or have to have a procedure, they're not in a good position to advise their physicians as to what drugs they are on. This can have a negative impact on patient outcome.

For example, a patient with a heart condition may be on a blood thinner used to prevent clots. If that patient needs to have surgery and fails to let the surgeon know about this medication, bleeding complications can arise.

Herbal drugs are another factor. Many people today take a supplement known as ginkgo biloba to increase or maintain brain function. However, this herb also interacts blood thinners and can cause excessive bleeding, even resulting in fatalities.

Anyone who is taking prescription drugs should keep a checklist of their medications and supplements with them at all times in their wallet or purse. Be sure to include over-the-counter drugs, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and herbal drugs, such as ginkgo biloba.

This information should be shared with the patient's physician at all visits. This is particularly important if there is more than one physician involved, so duplications and interactions can be minimized. The list should be updated whenever a change occurs and shared with any family members involved with healthcare matters.

Patients need to be partners with their health care team and exercise some control by asking questions and being diligent about tracking their prescriptions. Being a participant in their own health care can maximize the benefits today's medications have to offer.

For a convenient prescription tracking form, visit www.henrymayo.com, click on "For Patients," then the "Medication Record" link.

"Brown Bag Medication Analysis" at Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center - Find out how your medications interact and how you might possibly be able to cut down on your prescriptions. Bring all your current prescriptions to the free "Brown Bag" Analysis with Henry Mayo staff pharmacist Bill Thomas on Friday, February 9, at 1 - 2:30 p.m. in the modular building of the SCV Senior Center, 22900 Market Street, Newhall. 259-9444. For more information, please visit www.henrymayo.com