How to Properly Use
Different Forms of Medicines

How to Properly Use Different Forms of Medicines 

Different forms of medicines have their proper usage and individuals need to be aware of the proper way to use each of the medications that they are taking in order to get the full benefit from the medication.

All medicines to be effective need to be stored properly, dosed properly, used at the right time, at full length of the prescribed time, and to avoid mistakes, they should be read because important information appears on all medicine labels.

There are many different forms of medicines and each form has different particulars about it that users should be aware of in order to use them properly.

Medicine forms include oral (by mouth), patches, inhalers, ophthalmic drops, ophthalmic ointments, nasal drops and sprays, otic (ear) drops, and also rectal and vaginal suppositories (creams and ointments). 

Oral (by mouth): 

Oral medicines should be taken with a full glass of water. Some should be taken with food and others need to be taken on an empty stomach to be effective. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for an explanation of how to take your medication. 

Long-lasting medicines should be swallowed whole and not broken, crushed or chewed. 

Liquid medicines should be dispensed using the device given when the prescription was filled so that the correct measurement can be used.

Some devices include measuring spoons, droppers or measured cups. Never use an ordinary household teaspoon to measure medicine. 

Oral medicine comes in different forms: tablets, capsules, dissolvable discs, and liquids; make sure that you are able to swallow the form prescribed or ask if a different form is available (if you are unable to swallow pills ask for a liquid form). 

Always keep your oral medicine in a tightly closed original container that is stored out of the reach of children and pets. 

Skin patches: 

Skin patches are used for quitting smoking, and birth control. It is important to apply them correctly in order for them to work properly. 

Apply the skin patch to clean, dry skin in an area that has little or no hair and is free of scars, cuts or skin irritation such as rashes. If you have a previous patch on, remove it before applying the new patch. 

Your doctor will instruct you on when to apply a new patch including the dosage length, when an old patch becomes loose or falls off. 

Never cut or trim a patch, as this will adjust the dosage.

Inhalers:

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There should be instructions that come with your inhaler that describe how to dispense the dosage, and how to store and clean the inhaler.

If you do not understand the instructions you should speak with your pharmacist or doctor for clarification. 

Not all inhalers are used in the same manner; so do not assume that you know how to use a new inhaler. Always check the instructions before using for the first time. 

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Eye drops, and ointments: 

Never let the tip of the eye medicine applicator touch any surface including the surface of the eye, or eyelid. Keep the container closed when not in use. 

Always follow dosage and application instructions carefully. Ask a pharmacist or your doctor to demonstrate proper usage if necessary. 

You should always wash your hands before applying any eye medicine. Wash your hands after you are done to remove any traces of the eye medicine from your hands. 

Nasal drops and sprays: 

Wash your hands before using nasal medicines. Blow your nose gently before using the medicine. Tilt your head back while sitting or standing, or you can lie down on a couch or bed and hang your head over the edge.

Place drops according to directions in each nostril and keep the head tilted until the medicine has spread throughout the entire nose. Always rinse the dropper under hot water after using and dry with a clean tissue.

Make sure you replace the cap. Never use the same container for more than one person. 

Nose sprays are used with the head in an upright position. Use the medicine after washing your hands and gently blowing the nose. Use the number of sprays indicated on your prescription.

Squeeze the bottle quickly and firmly to dispense the medicine spray. Rinse the tip of the bottle with hot water and do not suck any water into the bottle, as this will dilute the solution inside.

Replace the cap and store in appropriate place. Only one person should use a container of nose spray to avoid spread of infection. 

Eardrops: 

While dispensing eardrops do not touch the end of the applicator to the ear. Do not rinse the dropper after use, rather you should wipe it with a clean tissue and keep the container closed. 

The medicine should be dropped into the ear canal. Keep the ear facing upwards for 5 minutes after placing the drops in the ear canal. 

Suppositories (rectal and vaginal): 

Always wash hands before inserting any rectal or vaginal medicine. Follow all instructions given and wash with hot, soapy water the tip of the applicator after usage (if any). Wash your hands after inserting the medicine.