What should you never do with prescription medication?

The reasons why sharing prescription medication with others, taking medication without consulting a doctor, and taking more than prescribed are all harmful practices are multifaceted.

Sharing prescription medication can lead to serious health risks, as medications are prescribed based on individual health conditions, medical history, and specific needs. What works for one person might not be appropriate for another and could cause adverse effects or interactions with other medications.

Taking medication without consulting a doctor is problematic because it bypasses professional medical guidance, potentially leading to misuse or harm. Doctors assess the appropriateness of medications considering various factors, including a patient’s current health status, other medications they might be taking, and any possible contraindications.

Taking more than the prescribed amount can significantly increase the risk of overdose, adverse effects, and long-term health issues. Dosages are carefully determined by health professionals to ensure both effectiveness and safety, and deviating from this guidance can have serious consequences.

All these practices undermine the integrity of medical care and can jeopardize an individual's health and well-being. Therefore, all of these actions should be avoided to ensure safe and responsible use of prescription medications.