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EDMONTON — Health officials are urging Albertans to take extra care with medications during National Poison Prevention Week, warning accidental poisonings can occur from common medicines if they are used or stored improperly.
Primary Care Alberta says prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and natural health products can all pose risks if instructions are not followed or if they are mixed with other substances.
Officials recommend reading instructions carefully before taking medicine and consulting a health-care provider before combining medications. They also advise avoiding mixing medicines with alcohol or cannabis.
Health officials say unused or expired medicines should be returned to pharmacies for safe disposal and suggest buying smaller quantities of over-the-counter drugs to reduce the risk of misuse.
Parents and caregivers are also encouraged to store medicines in secure locations out of the sight and reach of children and ensure products are kept in child-resistant packaging.
The agency notes that other common household products, including laundry detergent pods, essential oils, hand sanitizer and toothpaste, can also be harmful if swallowed or used incorrectly.
Officials say cannabis products, e-cigarettes and tobacco should also be stored safely away from children.
Anyone concerned about a possible poisoning is advised to call 911 or contact the Poison and Drug Information Service.
National Poison Prevention Week is an annual initiative supported by organizations including the University of Alberta’s Injury Prevention Centre and community partners.
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