By Vicki Rackner, M.D.

The best way to understand your loved one’s prescription plan and medications is to get involved. Ask your loved one for permission to go ahead and obtain a medication makeover. You and your loved one could benefit from lower prescription costs, less medications, a less-complicated regimen, and more.

Schedule an Appointment with Your Loved One’s Doctor

Make an appointment with your loved one’s primary doctor. I call this doctor the “quarterback doctor.” He or she is the one who oversees and coordinates your loved one’s medical care. Call the doctor’s office and say “I’m taking a more active role in helping my mom implement the medical plans you developed. I would like a twenty minute appointment to ask some questions about Mom’s medication.”

Prepare for the appointment by making a list of all medications, both over-the-counter and prescription medication.  When it’s time for the appointment, bring all the bottles in.

Then, ask the quarterback doctor:  

1.     Why is Mom on this medicine? Many patients have only vague ideas why they’re taking any given medicine!

2.     Does Mom still need this medication? Medication lists have a way of growing over the years.  Medications are frequently added but only stopped infrequently.

3.     Is there one medication that can do the work of two or three?

4.     Are there simple lifestyle choices that might reduce the need for medication?  Do not underestimate the power of a 10 minute walk! Your doctor will be able to offer more suggestions.

5.     Is there a generic or over-the-counter formulation that might be less expensive?

Create a Medication Plan that Works

Your loved one may not take his or her prescriptions if the regimen is complicated or the pill is too large to comfortably swallow. Talk to your quarterback doctor and say, “Dad finds it hard to keep track of this complex drug regimen. Can you think of ways of making it easier for him?” or “This pill is pretty big, and it gets caught in Mom’s throat.  Can you think of another option?” Your doctor may have some great tricks.

Shop Around

Medication prices vary tremendously.  Make a few calls and choose a pharmacy that appears most cost-effective. Pharmacy chain prices can even vary from store to store. Call around and find the best price. One thing to note is that you should try to get all medications filled at the same pharmacy, so the computer can identify potential adverse drug interactions.

Regularly Communicate with Your Loved One about Medications

Talk with your loved one about how the medication regimen is working.  Say, gently, “Dad, I want to ask you a question, and I would appreciate an honest answer.  I’m not going to get mad at you or judge you.  I know it’s hard for me to remember my vitamins every day.  You take seven medications.  How often do you take your medication as prescribed?” 

This might help your loved one feel free to discuss their regimen with you, and to feel comfortable to tell the truth. You can always ask, “What gets in the way of your taking the medicine?” Answers might include “I hate taking pills” or “It’s too complicated” or “I forget” or “I can’t stand the side effects.” Write this down and take it with you for your next visit to the quarterback doctor.