Measuring medicine, also called dosing, can be confusing! Health care providers and pharmacists may use terms such as milligrams (mg), milliliters (mL), micrograms (mcg), grams (g or gm), international units (IU), or other units of measure when talking about medicine.
Medicine Safety Archive
What You Should Know About Heart Medicines
Cardiovascular (heart) medicines are used to treat diseases of the heart and high blood pressure. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one of the most common prescription drugs taken by adults are for cardiovascular disease.
Weight Loss Medicines and Supplements
Many people choose weight loss as their new year resolution. In addition to the usual steps to achieving weight loss – setting specific and measurable goals, eating healthy, exercising, and other lifestyle changes – some people also use weight loss medicines or supplements.
Antihistamine Safety
Antihistamines are a type of medicine commonly used to treat allergies. Antihistamines were involved in approximately 1,200 cases at the Maryland Poison Center (MPC) in 2020. Let’s dive deeper into antihistamines and how to safely use them.
What Tweens and Teens Should Know About the Poison Center
People often think that poison centers are only for little kids, but that’s not true. Poison centers are for everyone, including tweens and teens. It’s important that tweens and teens are familiar with safety tips and tools to keep themselves safe.
What You Should Know About Melatonin
Melatonin is a natural hormone made by our bodies. It can also be taken as a dietary supplement. Melatonin can help you sleep better when used in the right way and right amount.
The Importance of a Medicine Tracker
Taking at least one medicine is a routine part of many people’s day. In fact, some people might even take many medicines every day. It is a good idea to keep an up-to-date list of all of the medicines you take.
Safe Medicine Disposal
Keeping unused or expired medicines in your home is dangerous. If your doctor tells you to stop taking a medicine, promptly dispose of it to help prevent a medicine error. Make it a habit to regularly dispose of unused and expired medicines.
Mixing Medicines with Alcohol
“My doctor just gave me a new medicine to take; can I drink alcohol with it?” This is how many conversations begin at the Maryland Poison Center. The answer to the question can vary depending on the medicine.
Top 10 Reasons Older Adults Should Call the Poison Center
Adults ages 59 years and older accounted for 9.8% of all cases at the Maryland Poison Center in 2018. Over the past three years, this number has continued to grow. Here, we explore the top 10 reasons older adults should call the poison center.
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