Pharmacists offer advice
on mixing medications
Residents who have questions about prescription drugs or supplements may discuss them with pharmacists this month, designated "Managing your Medications" Month in Hawaii.
Islanders can schedule free appointments with a participating pharmacy for consultation and take in all their medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter remedies and herbal supplements and vitamins.
Pharmacists will discuss the potential effects of mixing medications, with emphasis on patient safety.
Participating pharmacies include Longs Drugs, Times Supermarkets, Good Neighbor Pharmacy and various independent pharmacies.
Islanders can visit www.HMSA.com to learn which locations are participating and call to make an appointment.
"Today's health care consumer is likely to take some over-the-counter medicines (herbal remedies, cold medications, vitamins or dietary supplements) in addition to their doctor-prescribed medications," said Dr. John Berthiaume, medical director for HMSA Pharmacy Management.
"As a result, there is growing concern among health care professionals that use of multiple drugs may result in unexpected complications. Some drugs can counteract each other or at least diminish their intended effectiveness."
The Hawaii Medical Service Association and Hawaii Pharmacists Association began the program two years ago to help residents become more knowledgeable about medications.
Some common supplements which may have adverse interactions, HMSA said, include gingko biloba, promoted as a natural supplement to improve memory, and St. John's Wort, commonly used for depression.
Free seminars also are scheduled to help families learn about nutritional supplements, safely manage multiple medications and minimize adverse drug reactions.
Seminars will be held Saturday at the Maui Beach Hotel in Kahului, Oct. 11 at Wilcox Memorial Hospital in Lihue and Oct. 18 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Hotel, Coral Ballroom, Oahu. All run from 9 a.m. to noon.
To register for the Oahu seminar, call 948-6398. Call (800) 362-0618 to register for the Neighbor Island seminars.
