Hints From Heloise

Dear Heloise: Tragically, a young child recently died in our area when a pharmacist made an error. Here’s a quick and simple hint that might save someone’s life:

My doctor and my child’s pediatrician always verbally tell me what they are prescribing, how much they are prescribing (milligrams, milliliters, etc.), how much should be taken, and when and how it should be taken. As the doctor gives me the information, I write it down and then check my notes against the pharmacy label.

If I were ever to find a discrepancy, I would simply call the doctor’s office to confirm what I had written. - Cindy Johnson, Kingstowne, Va.

Good advice and, while we’re on the subject, be sure to tell your doctor the other drugs and even over-the-counter medications you are taking in order to avoid any harmful interaction. - Heloise