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Over-Medicating

By Elizabeth Scott, M.S., About.com

Created: January 17, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

Definition: Sometimes people see different types of doctors for various conditions, and are prescribed more than one medication with the same active ingredient. This overlap is referred to as ‘double-medicating’ or ‘over-medicating’. Not only can it be financially costly to take more medication than you need, but interactions between drugs can cause much bigger problems with your health. It’s important to talk to your doctors and be sure everyone knows everything that you’re taking.
Also Known As: Double-Medicating
Alternate Spellings: Over Medicating

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