AWARxE: Prescription Drug Safety News
Never call medicine “candy” to get children to take it, and make sure to securely lock medications out of children’s reach, advises the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC). The organization is highlighting several additional medication safety messages during National Poison Prevention Week, March 17-23, 2013. During this week, AAPCC aims to raise awareness about poison prevention, including tips for protecting both children and adults from accidental ingestion of medication and medication injury and overdose. For example, AAPCC advises adults to always give or take medication with the lights on and with glasses on if needed. In addition, prescription pain medications should be taken according to a doctor’s instructions – using them without a doctor’s prescription even once can be deadly, warns AAPCC. Everyone is encouraged to keep the Poison Help Line number, 800/222-1222, posted near home phones and programmed into cell phones. Calls are free and anonymous, and experts are on call 24 hours a day every day of the year to provide free, fast, confidential advice for poisoning questions and emergencies. More information about National Poison Prevention Week, as well as educational posters, are available on the Poison Prevention
The AWARxE Consumer Protection Program is brought to you by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy Foundation.
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