Older Adults
Using Medications and Supplements; photo of medication tablets and pills.
Over-the-Counter Medication Quiz

Just because a drug is available without a prescription doesn't mean it's safe to take. Take this quiz and learn the ins and outs of OTC medicines.

Medication Safety Quiz

Learn how to better manage your medications by taking this quiz.

Drug Interaction Quiz

True or false: A drug-alcohol interaction can lead to extreme drowsiness and other effects. Do you know the answer to this and other questions about drug interaction?

Using Medications Wisely
Managing Your Medicine Cabinet

Stocking your medicine cabinet isn't difficult and doesn't take much time. You'll first want the essentials for first aid and symptom relief, rounded out with a few items that meet the special needs of you and your family.

Taking Medication Safely

Medicine can help keep you healthy. But if you don’t take it correctly, it could harm you. Your doctor or pharmacist can help you learn the right way to take your medicine.

Learning to Manage Multiple Medications

The average American older than 65 takes two to seven prescription drugs daily; managing these medications properly is essential for good health.

Side Effects of Medicine May Increase With Aging

Sometimes medicines can cause side effects and actually make a person feel worse. Side effects are more common as people age, so it's important to understand how to identify and prevent side effects.

Easy Ways to Remember to Take Your Medications

If you have more than two medications to manage, consider getting a pill organizer—a special container marked with the days of the week. Besides housing multiple medications, a compartmentalized organizer can be useful for keeping track of the medications you've taken.

Over-the-Counter Remedies for Seniors

It's easy to forget that OTC remedies are drugs that can cause side effects and affect other medications. That's why it's important to read the dosage instructions, health risks and warnings on the packaging.

Consumer's Guide to Herbal Supplements

Americans spend $2.5 billion a year on herbal supplements, many of which have been proved beneficial. But because these products don't undergo the same U.S. Food and Drug Administration testing that prescription medicines do, some of these supplements could be unsafe.

All About Generic Medications

Every year, more than 400 million prescriptions are filled with generic medications in the United States.

Get the Most from Your Pharmacist

In addition to dispensing prescription medications, many pharmacies serve as health consultation centers.

Managing Your Medications

Whatever medications you take, it’s important to know why you’re taking them, what they’re designed to do, and how to take them properly.

Reading Room
Anti-Aging Hormones: Do They Work?

Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could look and feel years younger just by taking a supplement? The makers of "anti-aging" hormone supplements would like you to believe that this is possible. But before you accept their claims and open your wallet, see what medical researchers say.

Allergy Medications and Vaccinations for Older Adults

As you age, you should check with your health care provider about any allergy medications you take and make sure you are up to date on your shots.

How to Control Your Medical Costs

The health care decisions you make have a big impact on your life and your wallet.

Guarding Against Medical Scams

These tips will help you reduce your risk of being ripped off and putting your health in danger.

Use Caution With Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers are safe and effective when used as directed. It's when a person doesn't follow the label's advice that problems may occur.