Ask a Devoted Doctor: Medications

In this series, Dr. Lindsay Carter answers your questions on a range of topics.

Q: What can I do if I’m having a hard time keeping track of all my meds?

A: This is a common issue, especially if you take multiple meds! The good news is, there’s a lot you can do to stay organized and make sure you’re taking everything the right way. 

For many people, a pill box is a great place to start. This is a tried-and-true way to help you keep track of your meds. Try combining it with strategies to help you remember to take your meds, like: 

• Setting a reminder alert on your phone
• Checking off on your calendar when you’ve taken your meds
• Storing your meds in a place where you’ll see them
• Making it part of your daily routine — for example, if you have morning and evening meds, take them right before you brush your teeth

If your meds are a bit more complicated, or you’d just like some extra support, try:

• Mail-order. If getting to the pharmacy is a challenge, you may want to get your meds sent to your home instead. CVS Caremark is our partner for mail-order pharmacy. 
• A high-service pharmacy. They package your medications so you know exactly when to take them. Some are electronic and others use labeled packets.

Q: How can I get help understanding and using my medications?

A: It can be really hard to use medications the way your doctor prescribes them! Some common concerns or reasons that I hear are:

• “My medications are too expensive!”
• “I don’t like the side effects they cause.”
• “I have too many medications, I can’t keep track of them all!”
• “I’m not even sure why I’m taking this medication — is it really helping?”

If you’re having these challenges, it’s important to let your doctor know. That way, you can work together to find a medication routine that works for you. 

• Try a medication review with your doctor. Make an appointment and bring a list of all your medications — including any over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and minerals, and herbal supplements. Ask your doctor to explain why each one is important, and if something isn’t needed, see if you might be able to stop it. You can also ask about ways to simplify your routine — like switching to a similar med you take less often (like once a day instead of twice). 
• Talk to Devoted Health about a free medication review. If you take more than 8 medications and have 3 or more of certain chronic conditions, you may qualify for a special program where you have a 1-on-1 call with a pharmacist to answer your questions and talk through any concerns. Call our pharmacy team at 1-888-609-3532 (TTY 711) to find out if you qualify.
• Talk to Devoted Health about lower-cost options. If you’re having trouble affording your medication, we may be able to help you save on costs. Call us at 1-800-338-6833 (TTY 711).

Disclaimer
This article is for general reference only. Always talk to your doctor or other health professional for medical advice.