How to Read Drug Labels

Medicines if taken correctly will bring good effect. But if taken in the wrong way would be fatal. Therefore, before taking any medication we have to read the labels carefully to avoid adverse effects. Here are some of the drug's label instructions that we usually see on drugs :

Warning: This medication may cause drowsiness. Do not drive motor vehicles or operate any machinery after taking this medication.

This warning is usually used for medicines cause drowsiness, reduced alertness, and slowed reflexes power someone, for example, cough and cold medicines. Avoid consumption of alcohol and sleeping pills or sedatives along with medications that can cause drowsiness as it may aggravate side effects arise (sleepy).

Drugs should not be taken with milk, antacids, or medications that contain iron.

Calcium (found in milk), antacids (medicine mag), and obat0obat containing iron can be used effects gastrointestinal absorption of some specific types of drugs, such as tetracycline (antibiotic), and digoxin (heart medicine). So if you want to drink milk or iron-containing tablets preferably 2 hours before or after taking this medicine. Drinking and drugs slowly swallow. Do not be swallowed immediately with water.

Medication should be swallowed whole. No split, crushed or chewed.

This warning label is usually used for table or a special capsule that active drug substance is released slowly in the gastrointestinal tract. These drugs are usually taken one or two times a day. Spending will undermine the process of grinding the active drug substance in the gastrointestinal tract (which should take place slowly) and the efficacy of the drug.

Eaten on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Drug should be spent.

This warning label is usually used for medicines that can be absorbed in the intestinal tract, with empty stomach, such as antibiotic drugs. This medication should be consumed on a regular basis until exhausted although symptoms are improved, so that all the bacteria that cause the disease can be eradicated and to prevent the emergence of bacteria resistant to antibiotics.

Store in a cool place. Protected from light. Store in refrigerator, do not freeze.

Drugs are often exposed to air and light will Accept damaged. Therefore, the drug should be stored in a cool place. When stored in the refrigerator, the drug should be kept away from raw foods. Freezing can damage the drug.

Discard medication after it opened and has been through a specified date (expiration)

Drugs will be damaged, contaminated and decreased efficacy after the expiration of the expiration date. This usually occurs on antibiotic drugs (in the form of Cait), eye drops, and ear drops. Therefore, the drug should be disposed of through the account after a specified time limit after the bottle is opened.