Precautions To Consider When Taking Your Drugs

Although the drugs you are taking are intended to help you, they can be harmful to those around you. In an effort to prevent accidental exposure, certain precautions are recommended and should be respected for the duration of your therapy. Accidental absorption can occur simply by touching the drug or touching an object that has come into contact with the drug.

Below is a list of precautions you should take to protect those around you:

• Keep out of reach of children and animals.
• Store your drugs in the container that was given to you by your health care provider and make sure it is clearly labeled with your name.
• Store your drugs away from any food.
• If you need to store your medication in the refrigerator, place it in a rigid, closed container on a high shelf.
• If the drug comes in contact with any surface other than the container, that surface must be cleaned with a detergent.
• If you are taking tablets, do not crush or cut.
• If you are taking capsules, do not break open or crush.
• Wash your hands before and after taking your medication.
• Return any unused medication and related waste to the pharmacy for destruction.

• Anyone who handles your drugs should wear appropriate gloves. This same recommendation applies to anyone who must handle objects that have come into contact with your drugs, your blood, your urine, your vomitus or your stool.
• In spite of wearing gloves, it is important to thoroughly wash hands before and after handling these drugs.
• Used gloves should be disposed of in the provided container.
• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid handling your medication or contaminated materials/objects.

These precautions may be modified by the professionals supervising your treatment. If you have questions, contact the clinic where you are receiving treatment.