Pulse Center for Patient Safety Education & Advocacy (formerly PULSE OF NY)

Online, February 3, 2014 (Newswire.com) - What do you know about your over-the-counter medications, vitamins and herbs? Can they interact badly with your prescription medications? Could they be doing more harm than good?

Patient safety advocacy and education group PULSE of NY announced today that it is holding a special event called "Brown Bag It NY" on February 26, 2014, at which members of the public can discuss their non-prescription supplements in private meetings with a pharmacist and a pharmacy student from St. John's University College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.

Many people think that because over-the-counter remedies are often considered "natural" they can't cause harm. Many prescription drugs are derived from natural sources as well, but they have been tested for safety by the FDA, and their ingredients and effects are well understood. This is not the case for many "natural" supplements. Even something as benign as cranberry juice, for example, may dangerously increase the potency of blood-thinning prescription medications.

Those attending the Brown Bag event will also learn how to keep accurate records of medications, and will hear about the concept of a Designated Medication Manager in the family. A complimentary blood-pressure screening is also included.

The event will be held at the Freeport Memorial Library 144 W, Merrick Road Freeport, NY on Wednesday, February 26 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (last consultation 1:30). Reservations are suggested but not required. Call (516) 579-4711 to hold a spot.

Learn more at PULSE of NY Special Events http://www.pulseofny.org/gpage.html.

About PULSE: PULSE is a nonprofit 501 (c)3 grassroots organization dedicated to raising awareness about patient safety and reducing medical errors through advocacy, education, and support. http://www.pulseofny.org.