7 ways to make the most of your pharmacist

Managing meds is a major way that eight in 10 caregivers help their loved ones. But the worry of doing it wrong is very real.

If only you had a pro on your team. Someone who was familiar with the meds your loved one is taking, could flag potential problems and could even help you create a routine to make sure you don't miss doses.

Surprise: Pharmacists do all this and more.

It might look like they just package pills and run the checkout. But it takes six to eight years of advanced schooling (including four years in pharmacy school) to become a pharmacist, says Gretchen Garofoli, PharmD. They know a lot.

Here are seven valuable ways a pharmacist can help you be a better caregiver. All you have to do is ask.

1. Ask a pharmacist to: Watch for potential drug interactions

When you get all your prescriptions filled at the same pharmacy, the pharmacist will automatically check for possible interactions with other drugs that you are taking. That's an important line of defense, especially when taking different drugs prescribed by different doctors.

But for older adults who take a lot of meds, it can be smart to sit down with a pharmacist for an extended conversation. Called a comprehensive medication review, there's typically a fee for this type of service. But insurance often covers it if you're taking a number of drugs.

"A lot of seniors qualify," says Garofoli, a clinical associate professor at West Virginia University School of Pharmacy. Call your insurance company to find out. Medicare prescription plan members with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota can learn more at bluecrossmn.com/mtm.

Bring everything they're taking to the appointment, including OTC drugs and supplements. The pharmacist will check for interactions and duplicates. They may offer advice about how to take certain medications or whether there are any you could talk to your doctor about stopping or switching.

2. Ask a pharmacist to: Troubleshoot suspected side effects

Everyone reacts to drugs differently. And some side effects are more common with age because the way you metabolize drugs changes, says Michael Avaltroni, PhD, dean of the School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences at Fairleigh Dickinson University.

A pharmacist can tell you if a certain drug or combo of drugs could be why your mom feels tired, lightheaded or anxious.

Pharmacists typically can't change a prescription for you. But they can call the doctor and make a recommendation to lower or raise a dose based on how a patient is feeling.

3. Ask a pharmacist to: Talk through concerns about different meds

Doctor was too rushed to address all your questions? Can't remember what was said after leaving the appointment? Pharmacists can be a great resource.

For example if you're worried about your dad's gluten (or lactose or fructose) allergy with a new drug, a pharmacist can help you check it out. Drugs aren't only comprised of active ingredients. They also contain inactive ones your loved one might be sensitive to.

The pharmacist can tell you about those inactive ingredients. And if necessary, they can suggest a switch.

In some cases, you might have to seek out a "compounding pharmacy." These specialized pharmacies take FDA-approved drugs and make custom versions. If your current pharmacy doesn't do compounding, they should be able to refer you to one in the area that does, says Avaltroni. Just check with the insurance company about coverage and networks before using a new pharmacy to avoid unexpected costs.

4. Ask a pharmacist to: Help you make a plan to keep it all straight

Being responsible for making sure someone takes 15 pills a day takes a lot of mental energy — and organization. A pharmacist can help you streamline a complicated regimen so you don't miss pills or accidentally double-dose.

Depending on the patient and/or caregiver's preferences, a dry erase board, printed checklist or smartphone apps might come into play.

5. Ask a pharmacist to: Give you the same med in a form that's easier to take

As many as one in five older adults have trouble swallowing tablets or capsules. That can make taking medication a battle. But pharmacists can help.

If pills are a problem, the same drug can often be made into a liquid, topical or injectable version. This type of switch is something a compounding pharmacy would offer if your local pharmacy doesn't.

"Adherence packaging" can also help if you take the same medications regularly. That means getting individual doses of medications you take at the same time of day sealed together and labeled so it's easier to stay on track, says Garofoli. If your local pharmacy doesn't do this they can suggest one that does. Or check out online services like pillpack.com.

6. Ask a pharmacist to: Check the safety of an over-the-counter med

Just because a drug is available without a prescription doesn't mean it's safe for everyone. When in doubt, ask a pharmacist to weigh in. For example: "My dad has a heart condition. Is this cold medicine okay for him to take?"

Pharmacists can even do a little triage work. If your dad is feeling lousy and you're not sure if it's okay to self-treat or wait a few days to see a doctor, ask. "They'll be able to tell you if you need to get medical help immediately," says Avaltroni.

7. Ask a pharmacist to: Help you get up to date on routine immunizations

Your loved one probably has enough doctors' appointments. And getting them there can be a job in itself. If there isn't another reason to visit their doctor when a flu shot or shingles vaccine is due, consider a stop at the pharmacy. Laws vary by state, but many pharmacists can also give immunizations.