Lock up you Meds during Holiday Gatherings

When preparing to host holiday gatherings, you may not immediately think to add ‘properly store medication’ to your to-do list. However, with prescription drug abuse and overdose increasing, it’s important to take appropriate measures to secure your medicines before visitors arrive.
“Many people don’t realize how common prescription drug misuse and abuse issues are,” said Kristina Clark, co-developer of the national Count It! Lock It! Drop It!™ prescription drug abuse prevention program. “There are many reasons someone might get into your medicines, and a number of negative consequences when they do.”
By keeping your medications properly locked and out of sight, you can avoid issues that could arise when a guest isn’t feeling well and checks the family medicine cabinet.
“Friends or family may seek relief for a headache or some other condition, and simply take a prescription medication they find, thinking it will help,” said Cheryl McClatchey, behavioral health director at BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. “It may not be done with bad intentions, but it can have dangerous outcomes.”
Even if someone asks you to share your pills, it’s best to refrain, says Dr. Natalie Tate, director of pharmacy at BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee.
Count It! Lock It! Drop It!™ offers these tips to keep prescription drugs safe year-round:
• Store your medications in a secure and dry place. Invest in a home lock box.
• Count your pills regularly to check for missing medication.
• Never share your medications.
• Don’t discuss your medications with others.
• Dispose of unused medications securely – go to countitlockitdropit.org to find a secure drop box near you.