10 Ways to Manage Your Meds

Research confirms that while appropriate use of medications can help you, inappropriate use-or just plain mistakes-can be harmful. In one recent study, researchers found that 13.5 million outpatient visits during a three-year period were linked to negative effects from prescription medications. People who take multiple drugs are particularly vulnerable to unpleasant or dangerous side effects, allergic reactions and toxicity, according to findings published May 6, 2011 in the journal Health Services Research.