Taking medication

Listed below are some practical hints and tips about taking medication.

• Ask your pharmacist to supply your medication in non-childproof bottles, as opening secured containers can become difficult for a person with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Remember to keep such bottles out of the reach of children. If popping tablets out of blister packs is a problem, then say so.
• If taking your medication causes a feeling of sickness, this may be improved by taking it together with some low-protein food, e.g., a piece of bread or some vegetables. However, check this with your doctor first, as some medications should not be taken together with food.
• Keep the first morning dose of medication by the bedside, so that it is easy to reach if mobility is a problem early in the day. A small pack of crackers could also be kept there in case nausea is a problem.
• If you find it difficult to swallow pills, then taking a mouthful of water, or putting the pill into a spoon of fruit purée can help it slip down. (NB. It is generally advisable to take levodopa pills with water only, but ask your doctor about this.) Alternatively, it may be worth asking your doctor or PD nurse if your pills can be crushed, or if any liquid forms are available.
• If you experience any worrying effects such as hallucinations or confusion, then report these to your doctor immediately. They may be a side effect of your medication.