High Alert Medications

As a pharmacy technician, it is important to be aware of high-alert medications, which are drugs that have a higher risk of causing significant harm to patients if used improperly

These medications require extra attention and precautions to ensure their safe use

These medications have a high incidence of errors in all settings

Chemotherapy Drugs

These medications are used to treat cancer but can cause serious side effects if not administered properly

Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians must be very careful with all calculations associated with drugs that are antineoplastic

Insulin and Oral Hypoglycemics

Insulin is a hormone used to treat diabetes, but it can also cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if the dose is incorrect

Due to the potential declines in diabetic patients’ blood glucose levels the oral agents are also high-alert drugs

There are concentrated vials of insulin that are 500 units per 1 mL

Opioids

Opioids are powerful pain medications that can be addictive and cause respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing) if taken in excess

With the rise in opioid deaths the use of these medications must be carefully monitored

Many of these drugs come in both IR and ER formulations

Anticoagulants

These medications are used to prevent blood clots but can cause bleeding if the dose is too high or if the patient has other risk factors

Sedatives

Sedatives are used to help patients relax or sleep but can cause respiratory depression if taken in excess or taken with other medications that cause respiratory depression

As a pharmacy technician, it is important to be familiar with the specific protocols and procedures for handling and dispensing high alert medications

This may include:

• Double-checking doses

• Labeling medications clearly

• Ensuring that patients receive appropriate counseling and education about the medication

By being vigilant and following proper procedures, pharmacy technicians can help ensure that patients receive safe and effective care