Medication Review Checklist

Medication Review Checklist

This checklist is designed for older adults, caregivers, and families to use during medical appointments.

Bring all current medications (including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements) and use this guide to ensure safe, effective treatment.

Step 1: Gather All Medications

• List every prescription drug, over-the-counter medication, and supplement.

• Write down the dose and how often it is taken.

• Bring all pill bottles to the appointment.

Step 2: Ask These Questions

• Do I still need this medication?

• Is the dose correct for my age and kidney/liver function?

• Could this drug interact with others I am taking?

• Are there safer alternatives available?

Step 3: Watch for High-Risk Drugs

• Sleeping pills and sedatives (risk: confusion, falls).

• Opioids and strong painkillers (risk: side effects, dependence).

• Anticholinergic drugs (risk: memory and thinking problems).

Step 4: Deprescribing Process

• Never stop medications suddenly without medical advice.

• Reduce doses step by step under a doctor’s guidance.

• Switch to safer alternatives when possible.

Step 5: Make Reviews Routine

• Schedule a full medication review at least once per year.

• Repeat reviews after any major health change or hospitalization.

• Include caregivers in discussions—they often notice side effects first.

■ Tip: Keep this checklist handy and update it regularly to improve safety, reduce side effects, and support better quality of life.

Previous
Previous

Columbus Day Story

Next
Next

Cutting Through the Pill Bottles