Prescribed drugs misuse tackled

Up to 50% of medicines are not taken as prescribed

A campaign backed by the Welsh Assembly Government seeks to radically reduce the improper use of prescribed drugs.

The campaign, called Ask About Medicines Week, will tackle the problem which affects all ages and a host of illnesses in order to make treatment more effective.

Almost everyone takes medicines at some point in their lives. They have an enormous potential to affect health and wellbeing.

On average 70% of the population are on prescription or over-the-counter medication at any one time, yet research consistently shows that up to 50% of medicines are not taken as prescribed.

Ask About Medicines Week (October 12- 18) is a new initiative intended to help to increase understanding of medicines.

Medicine's week's themes Monday 13 October: Babies & children Tuesday 14 October: Women's health Wednesday 15 October: Mental health Thursday 16 October: Men's health Friday 17 October: Older people Saturday 18 October: Long term/chronic illness

It also seeks to create more opportunities for people to discuss their views and concerns about medicines with a range of health professionals, including pharmacists, doctors and nurses.

Activities taking place during the week include the distribution of a leaflets and handy Ask About Medicines Question Card which answers many questions about what a medicine actually does and what precautions patients carry out when taking certain prescribed medicines.

There will also be the release of a Mori survey on attitudes about medicine taking in Wales and an exhibition in the Cardiff Bay headquarters of the Welsh Assembly Government to raise awareness among AMs of the need for better access to information about medicines.

The week will have a series of themed days, addressing issues of concern to particular groups.

Assembly Health Minister Jane Hutt said: "This campaign provides a timely opportunity for people to make sure they have access to all the information they need.

Leaflets are being distributed during the campaign

"It is important that people are involved in decisions about their health and that they fully understand how medicines can be used safely and to the best effect.

"The campaign week may end on 18 October, but it is important that Ask About Medicines messages are promoted all year round."

Ask About Medicines Week in Wales is also backed by NHS Cymru Wales, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (Welsh Executive), Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (Cymru/Wales), Community Pharmacy Wales, National Patient Safety Agency and other partner organisations linked with the aims of the campaign.