It’s a fact of life: As we age, most of us face new conditions that require new medications, while the medicines we once took may no longer be adequate. In addition, medications themselves evolve over time. Companies introduce new drugs to the marketplace, and long-term studies provide fresh insights on traditional drugs. The following information takes a closer look at these topics and how they may impact you and those you love at every stage of life.

Keeping children healthy
“Food and Drug Administration (FDA) surveys have found that the use of over-the-counter (OTC) cold and cough medications in children 2 years of age and younger have resulted in severe adverse events, including death. Prior to consulting a health care professional regarding cough and cold treatment, parents may wish to use cool mist vaporizers and/or nasal sprays,” says Robert Randall, RPh, a registered pharmacist with Pharmacy @ Park Nicollet. The FDA continues to study these medications for use in children age 6 and younger due to reports of adverse events.

The FDA found that cold medications are effective only at doses that are too strong for these younger children. To help them remain comfortable, the FDA now recommends parents use vaporizers and saline nasal sprays.

Dosing instructions for OTC medications are another concern for parents. “Studies show that 36 percent of parents do not understand dosing instructions on labels,” Randall says. “The FDA is working to clarify that. In the meantime, parents should ask a pharmacist to explain any directions they don’t understand.”

Helping teens take care of themselves
When children reach their teenage years, they often begin to buy and administer their own OTC medications. But, studies show that teens don’t always follow directions properly; some take too little, while others take too much. “It’s helpful when parents are aware of these trends and teach their teens the importance of taking only the prescribed amounts,” Randall says.

About four years ago, the FDA issued warnings about some medications that treat depression, asking doctors, parents and teens to watch for an increase in suicidal thoughts. If a teenager’s symptoms of depression continue or worsen while on these medications, the doctor should be alerted.

Randall also warns parents to be aware of the growing trend among teens to abuse OTC and prescription drugs. (To learn more, read “The latest buzz: Prescription drugs make headlines.”)

Adults need guidance, too
“Studies show two troubling concerns regarding adults and their medications,” Randall says. About 20 percent of their prescriptions do not get filled, and many long-term prescriptions are not refilled. By adulthood, many people need medications to help manage chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, which often have no apparent symptoms. Even when these medications are working properly, results are not always readily apparent. Still, it’s extremely important that adults take all medications as prescribed, because not taking them could result in serious consequences, such as a heart attack or stroke. (To learn more, read “Take care of your meds — and they’ll take care of you.”)

Randall says people sometimes opt for herbal supplements instead of prescription drugs. “I recommend people discuss this with their doctor. The FDA does not regulate supplements, and some can react negatively when taken with other medications.” (To learn more, read “A bad mix? Drugs, alcohol and herbal supplements.”)

Caring for seniors
“Seniors also must fill prescriptions and carefully follow their instructions,” Randall continues. “Sometimes, this can get confusing when they have many medications that must be taken at different times throughout the day. It’s important they seek help in getting organized, either from the pharmacist, doctor or family member.” Doctors and pharmacists explain dosing instructions verbally, and patients receive written instructions with every prescription. If seniors or their family members still have questions, they may ask their pharmacist for clarification by phone or in person. (To learn more, read “Take care of your meds — and they’ll take care of you.”)

Another concern affecting seniors is that the liver, kidneys and circulatory system do not always work as well as they should, which can affect how medications are processed through the body. In some cases, doctors need to adjust medications to accommodate these changes. “If patients or their family members have questions or concerns, we want them to contact us,” Randall adds.

To learn more about taking drugs at different life stages, call 952-993-5500. Or visit parknicollet.com/stores/pharmacy to learn more about Pharmacy @ Park Nicollet.