Tips for Taking your Medicine
To get the optimal benefit from your medicine it is important that you take it in accordance with your Doctor's/Pharmacist's instructions.
This means the right dose (quantity), at the frequency and for the length of the time prescribed by your Doctor.
You can discuss your medicine with your Doctor and/or Pharmacist. Don't be afraid to ask questions.
Don't delay, fill your presciption
It may seem obvious but it is important to take your prescription to a pharmacy and get your medicine as soon as possible. If you are travelling, make sure you have enough medicine for your journey.
Learn about your medicine
For further information about your medicine please refer to the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI). CMI contain information about what your medicine is, what it treats and how you should take it. It also provides information on possible side effects and what you should do if you experience any of them. Your Doctor and Pharmacist can provide the CMI to your or you can access it on the Medsafe website, www.medsafe.govt.nz.
Many medicines come with a ‘package insert’. This is a leaflet which also provides information about the medication, in particular how to take it.
Take your medicine
It is important that you take your medicine as per your Doctor’s instructions.
It can be helpful to set some reminders to get you into a routine of taking your medicine. Such as, setting the alarm on your phone, a note on your bathroom mirror, or leaving your medicine in a prominent place. Find a method that works for you!
Contact your Doctor if you experience any side effects when taking your medicine.
Keep taking your medicine as prescribed by your Doctor
Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are chronic diseases. Depending on the severity of the disease, people need to take their medicines to get well and then, stay well. This means that you need to take your medicine for the long term.
If you are having problems taking your medicine it is important to talk to your Doctor or Pharmacist.