AUSTRALIANS who take more than one regular medicines are being urged to have an up-to-date list of their medications.
This is the advice from government-funded not-for-profit NPS MedicineWise ahead of an anticipated spike in the number of people seeking health care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
It said having a list handy - in case you need to visit your GP or heath care provider - is important if you need to go to hospital during the coronavirus pandemic.
Pharmacist and Medicines Line manager at NPS MedicineWise, Nerida Packham, said a medicines list is a complete list of all your prescription, over-the-counter and complementary medicines.
"If you take one or more regular medicines, make sure you have an up-to-date medicines list in case you need to go into hospital unexpectedly or visit a doctor or pharmacist who is not familiar with your health status," says Ms Packham.
"Updating your medicines list is easier when you are feeling well, so now is the time to make sure yours is up to date.
"If you care for someone, help them prepare a list of their medicines too, and make sure family members know where and how to access a copy of each other's medicines lists," she says.
Record the active ingredient of your medicine, what the medicine is for, and how and when to take it.
"You can record your list of your medicines or the medicines of someone you care for in whichever way suits you best," says Ms Packham.
You can download a blank copy of the NPS MedicineWise medicines list or download the free MedicineWise app for your phone.
The MedicineWise app can store a list of your medicines and general health information, schedule reminders and provide information on your medicines. It also helps people who care for loved ones who use multiple medicines manage a list on their behalf. Download the free MedicineWise app from Google Play or the App Store.
If you have questions about your medicines phone Medicines Line on 1300 633 424, Monday-Friday 9am-5pm AET (excluding public holidays).
Geraldine Cardozo
Features Editor at The Senior.
Features Editor at The Senior.
