Proper cancer medication management cannot be undermined. Medications prescribed by the physician will likely be more effective if the instructions on when and how to take them is strictly followed. ContinuCare Home Health Inc. in San Antonio Texas explains why it is important for cancer patients to follow their medications correctly in a two-part blog post. Be sure to check back in regularly for updates.

Cancer patients must inform their doctors on all the medications they are taking in order to prevent any drug interactions. Cancer treatments often have a number of different medications needed to take at home, both for cancer treatment and to reduce the treatment’s side effects. Therefore it is important for patients to ask questions about their medication and tell the doctor when they have noticed any symptoms or side effects.

Many cancer patients who are taking prescription medications don’t follow their doctor’s instructions for various reasons:

• They decide not to finish all medication when they start feeling better
• They find it difficult to remember the medication schedule, especially those that need to be taken at different times of the day.
• They stop taking medication since they see no improvement right away
• Many cancer patients are not sure what to do when they accidentally missed or skipped a dose of their medication
• They skip doses or take less than what was prescribed in order to save money

A doctor prescribes a certain medication based on what he or she feels will treat a patient’s condition. To get the most benefit from the prescribed treatment, ContinuCare Homehealth Inc. lists down some tips cancer patients can follow.

• Make sure to read the labels of the medication to be sure of the correct dosage. If patient is unsure, do not hesitate to double check with the doctor or attending physician.
• Use a weekly pill organizer. It will also be helpful if pills are taken at the same time every day.
• Have a chart or pill calendar to keep track of the medications.
• Enlist the help of family, friend or a home health care facility to help with medication management