In 1735, Benjamin Franklin famously declared “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Franklin delivered that message to persuade a group of stubborn Philadelphians to create a full-time fire department that could serve the city and effectively manage a potentially devastating fire. The idea that a modest preventative step could result in the realization of a meaningful future benefit is comforting and something every individual wishes to achieve. It is especially true in the context of an individual’s personal health. Everyone wants to live a long, pain free life, uncomplicated by the scourge of old age. Sadly, this is not reality.
To better realize that goal of good health you might wish to consider consulting a physician or health care provider for a “medication review.” A medication review is a proactive measure that allows a person to evaluate their prescription drug regimen in a comprehensive fashion. The reviewer can consider how an individual medication or multiple medications are affecting your health. This review considers both the individual and more global effects of the medications.
It is an unavoidable truth that prescription medication is necessary and often desirable to help treat or control a given health issue. However, equally true is the fact that complications may arise—sometimes resulting in devastating or even fatal consequences. Many times the unsuspecting individual does not know that a medication is causing their problem. Every person owes it to themselves to become educated on the drugs entering their body. This is one area where a small investment in time can yield substantial benefit.
If you uncover any unsettling or troubling information during the medication review, you have served yourself well in two respects. First, and most importantly, you have a chance of fixing the problem and removing the medication from your prescription regimen. Second, you can decide whether you wish to pursue legal recourse against the manufacturer of the harmful medication. Litigation may be a viable alternative or a practical necessity but it is best to be proactive and informed.
