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Pharmaceutical Representative
More than one-third of patients do not tell their physicians all of the prescription and over-the-counter medications that they are taking.
More than one-third of patients do not tell their physicians all of the prescription and over-the-counter medications that they are taking, according to a recent survey sponsored by Milwaukee-based Schwarz Pharma.
In a survey of 1,000 adults, 38% reported that they did not always give their physicians a complete list of all medications taken. And although more women (70%) than men (53%) informed their doctor of their medications, and the quality of patient-physician communication improved with the patient's age, 58% of all adults who reported taking prescription medication reported minor side effects, such as dizziness, nausea or shortness of breath.
"Some incidence of side effects with any prescription or even over-the-counter medication is inherent," said Klaus Veitinger, president of Schwarz Pharma. "The more important issueâ¦is the potential for adverse interaction resulting in side effects when patients are taking multiple prescription and/or over-the-counter medicines."
The importance of fully disclosing medication regimens increases with a patient's age, as many patients find themselves taking multiple prescription products to combat a variety of age-related afflictions.
Based on its survey results, Schwarz Pharma recommended the following:
• Patients should carry a list of the medications they are taking, both prescription and over-the-counter.
• Patients should make certain the list is included with their medical records and is updated to reflect changes.
• Patients need to ask their physicians and pharmacists about possible side effects and adverse reactions when they are prescribed a new medication.
Schwarz Pharma also recommended that patients, physicians and pharmacists carefully read product literature. PR