Medications: A focus on safety

More than 40% of people age 65 or older take five or more medications. In many cases, they're needed. However, overuse, underuse and misuse of drugs all have been linked to serious health problems, disabilities, hospitalizations and even death.

Thankfully, almost one out of four harmful events is preventable. How can you avoid becoming a statistic? Follow these tips.

Show your card!

Present your Priority Health ID card every time you fill a prescription. Sharing your card allows the pharmacist to check for important drug interactions and other safety concerns. When you use your card, you'll also always pay the lowest amount between your copay or the pharmacy's price. For example, if you have a $10 copay, but the pharmacy's cost is $4 for your prescription, you'll pay just $4 by showing your card.

Avoid high-risk medications

Some medications have risks that increase with age. In many cases, safer alternatives are available. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking a medicine that is not safe for your age. See the chart below for safe alternatives to many high-risk drugs.

Take the right medication

As many as 2/3 of people with diabetes do not regularly take a medicine that can prevent heart disease and protect their long-term health. If you have diabetes and high blood pressure, talk with your doctor or pharmacist about whether ACE inhibitors and ARBs would be right for you.

Cut your prescription costs

Use our savings calculator to see how much you might be able to save by switching to generics. Try the generic savings calculator now.

Topics: Prescription drugs