The Most Essential Drugs You Should Monitor Closely
The most important medications to track are those that have the potential to cause serious harm or have severe side effects if not taken as prescribed. These include, but not limited to:
- Blood thinners: Medications such as warfarin and heparin are used to prevent blood clots and can have serious side effects if not taken as prescribed.
- Insulin: Insulin is used to control blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes and can have serious consequences if not taken as directed.
- Opioids: Opioids are powerful painkillers that can be addictive and can have serious side effects if not taken as prescribed.
- Antidepressants: Antidepressants can have serious side effects if not taken as prescribed, including an increased risk of suicide.
- Antipsychotics: Antipsychotics can have serious side effects if not taken as prescribed, including an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease.
- Immunosuppressants: These medications are used to suppress the immune system to prevent organ rejection after transplant and can have serious side effects if not taken as prescribed.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy can have serious side effects if not taken as prescribed, including a risk of infection, anemia, and other complications.
It's important to note that this is not an exhaustive list and the most important medications to track can vary depending on the individual and their specific health conditions. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine which medications are most important to track for you and to have an open communication with them about any concerns or side effects that may arise.