Drug-Induced Psychosis

Know Your Drugs Keep a list of all the drugs you take. This includes prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. Update your list when your drugs change. Keep this list in your wallet or purse. Make sure you know the name of the drug. Know the difference between the brand name and the generic name. Ask the doctor, "Is this the brand name or the generic name?" "Is there a generic for this drug?" Make sure you know why you are taking the drug. Ask the doctor, "What does this drug treat?" Make sure you know the right dose and when you should take the drug. Ask the doctor, “How much should I take? When do I need to take this drug?” Ask your doctor, "How long will it take for the drug to start working and how will I know if it is working?" Make sure you know how long you will need this drug. Ask your doctor, "How long will I need to take this drug?" Ask your doctor, "Are there foods, drinks, other drugs, or activities I should avoid while taking the drug?" Ask your doctor, "What side effects should I watch for?" Make sure you look at any color and markings on the drug. This can help you make sure you have the right drug if you need refills. Ask at the pharmacy if the drugs look different after a refill. Keep your drugs in the containers they came in. Do not mix drugs in the same container. Take Your Drugs Safely Always read the label on the container. Do this each time you take a drug to be sure you have the right one. Make sure the container lid is securely fastened after each time you take your drug. Always turn on the lights when taking your drugs. This will help to make sure you are alert and are taking the correct drug as instructed. Check with your doctor before you crush, chew, or break any pills or capsules. If you are taking a liquid drug, make sure to use the measuring device that came with the drug or one from the pharmacy. Using household spoons or cups could cause an error in the amount of drug you are taking. Household utensils are not accurate. Some drugs need blood testing to be sure the drug is at the right dose. If you take this type of drug, talk with your doctor about when you should have your blood tested. If you are in the hospital, make sure anyone who is giving you drugs checks your ID band first. This will keep you from getting someone else's drugs. Take drugs only as directed. Take only drugs prescribed for you. Do not share drugs with other people. Store All Drugs Safely Keep drugs out of the reach of children and pets. A locked cabinet is the safest place to store drugs. Make sure you store your drug in a safe location after every use. Set an alarm to remind you of the next dosing time rather than leaving the drug out to serve as a reminder. Be sure visitors keep drugs away from children. Watch out for drugs left in purses and on bedside tables. Keep drugs that come in tubes, like cream or ointment, away from other products like toothpaste. This can help avoid a serious mistake. Store drugs away from direct sunlight. Do not store drugs in places where there is lots of humidity like in a bathroom. The drugs may be less effective.