Medication Interactions: A Growing Concern

In home nursing practice, one of the most critical services we provide is educating patients and caregivers to manage their complex medication regimens. The many medicines a person takes must work in harmony; otherwise, the result can be wasted benefit, adverse reactions, or worse. That is why National Check Your Meds Day is observed every October 21, sponsored by the National Community Pharmacists Association, to promote the importance of medication reviews. It is an opportunity for patients to take back control of their medications by visiting their local pharmacist for a comprehensive review of their prescriptions.

The Growing Risks of Multiple Medications

Older adults (65 years and older) are among those most vulnerable. Studies now estimate that as many as 65 percent of older adults in the country take five or more medications concurrently (often considered the definition of polypharmacy).

Why does this matter? Taking multiple medications increases the chances of adverse drug reactions, dangerous drug–drug interactions, and medication errors. In older patients, adverse drug reactions are a known cause of hospitalization.

In fact, a broad study reported that patients experiencing continuous polypharmacy had a 39 percent higher hazard of hospitalization and a 21–30 percent higher hazard of death compared to those not in polypharmacy.

These figures demonstrate the importance of conducting systematic medication checks for every drug a person takes, including prescriptions, over-the-counter remedies, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Why Signature Promotes Med Checks

In a home care setting, having a nurse or therapist conduct a check your meds session has several advantages:

When you perform regular check-my-meds assessments, you create a system of ongoing safety rather than reactive remediation.

What to Expect in a Medication Review

During a medication check-up, a nurse or pharmacist should:

A transparent discussion about your meds, the risks, and the benefits strengthens trust and safety.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day: A Vital Reminder

On October 25, 2025, nationwide sites will offer a safe and anonymous disposal option for expired or unused prescription and over-the-counter medications. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a biannual event organized by the DEA to help prevent medication misuse and environmental contamination.

Notably, in 2024, the DEA collected nearly 630,000 pounds of unwanted medications across 4,600 sites. Local drop boxes and collection points are available year-round to support medication disposal when you return your unused medications outside of the event.

Throwing medications in the trash or flushing them can lead to accidental ingestion or water contamination; taking advantage of these disposal opportunities is part of wise medication stewardship.

The Case for Regular Medication Reviews

Just as a car benefits from annual maintenance, a person’s set of drugs demands periodic medical checks. Many conditions evolve, kidney function declines, new diagnoses arise, or some drugs may no longer be needed.

If a patient has not had a medication review in the past year, it should be their top priority. Reviews help prevent dangerous interactions and ensure everyone is getting full value from each prescription.

Undertaking these reviews reduces adverse outcomes among patients on multiple medicines. When we stay proactive, we cut down emergency visits, hospitalizations, and drug-related harm.

How a Home Nurse or Therapist Makes a Difference

Practical Steps We Take for You

Safety Through Oversight

Medication use is not a static entry on a prescription pad. It is a dynamic, evolving system that affects every cell, organ, and functional domain of a patient’s health. Check your meds, schedule regular medication check-ups, which will help you feel safe when you take your meds, and, when appropriate, take back your meds for disposal.

At Signature Health Services, our trained and registered professionals are here to help you manage your medications effectively. Whether you need assistance with understanding when to take your meds, managing multiple prescriptions, or conducting a comprehensive medication review, we are here to guide you every step of the way. In addition, our nurses can offer valuable advice on timing, dosage, and any potential interactions. We can consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation if adjustments are needed.

Remember, staying informed and keeping your drugs up to date is key to maintaining your health and well-being. Let us help you check your medications and take control of your health today.