Tag: Patient education

In the United States, adverse drug events (ADEs) lead to over 1.5 million emergency department visits annually [1.4.3]. Understanding **which treatment is contraindicated** is a critical step in preventing harm and ensuring medication efficacy for any patient.

According to studies, amitriptyline and other tricyclic antidepressants significantly increase the risk of fall-related injuries, especially in older adults. This critical information prompts the question: **Is amitriptyline a risk for injury?** and what can be done to mitigate these hazards.

The term PRN appears on countless prescriptions, yet many people are unsure of its meaning. Rooted in the Latin phrase *pro re nata*, this common medical abbreviation simply translates to “as needed”. Understanding **what does PRN mean in medical terms** is crucial for safely managing medications for pain, anxiety, or other intermittent symptoms.

According to the FDA, over-the-counter (OTC) medications allow consumers to safely treat minor health issues without a prescription. But what is the OTC medical term, exactly, and what makes these drugs different from their prescription counterparts? This guide explains the terminology, regulation, and safe usage of nonprescription medicines.

Adverse drug reactions are a leading cause of death in the United States, ahead of diabetes, AIDs, and automobile deaths [1.5.7]. Understanding **what are contraindications in drug therapy** is a critical step in preventing these harmful and sometimes fatal events [1.2.2].

With nearly 120 million U.S. adults living with high blood pressure, medication is a critical tool for managing the condition and preventing serious complications. Understanding potential side effects is key to successful treatment, but many patients wonder: **what is the most common side effect of blood pressure medication**? For many, the answer is a general feeling of dizziness and lightheadedness as the body adjusts to lower blood pressure.

As of 2020, over 7.6 million adults in the U.S. use oral anticoagulants [1.5.1]. A common question among them is, 'Is it okay to drink alcohol on blood thinners?' Generally, healthcare professionals advise against it due to significantly increased risks [1.3.4].

Anticoagulants, commonly known as blood thinners, are prescribed to millions of people each year to prevent dangerous blood clots. However, the most significant and well-documented risk factor associated with anticoagulants is an increased risk of bleeding. This hemorrhage can range from minor issues like bruising to life-threatening internal bleeding, and its severity depends on multiple patient-specific and medication-related factors.

According to data from the National Institutes of Health, while heparin-associated bleeding is common, overdose is considered a serious, though rare, complication. Recognizing **what are the signs of too much heparin** is critical, as prompt intervention is necessary to prevent life-threatening bleeding and other complications.

Nearly 5% of hospitalized patients experience an adverse drug event (ADE), making it one of the most common inpatient harms [1.5.6]. Many of these events are linked to a specific category of drugs, which raises the question: **what are considered high risk meds?**