What to Do When a Loved One Loses Their Medications: A Caregiver’s Guide

Losing medications is one of the most stressful situations a caregiver can face—and this week, it happened to me.

My loved one misplaced important prescription medications she relies on daily. What followed was a crash course in just how complicated replacing lost medications can be, especially when insurance approvals, doctor’s offices, and pharmacy policies collide.

The Reality of Replacing Lost Medications as a Caregiver

The process was far from simple.

It took multiple phone calls to the doctor’s office to request a new prescription. Once the prescription was finally sent, the pharmacy—Walgreens—could not immediately fill it. Because the medication was considered “lost,” the insurance company required a waiver and approval before coverage would apply.

This meant additional calls, waiting periods, and explaining the situation repeatedly—all while worrying about my loved one going without the medication she desperately needed.

By Wednesday, after persistence and advocacy, the insurance approval came through, the prescription was filled, and she finally had her medication again.

The relief was overwhelming—but the experience was eye-opening.

Caregiving Comes With Unexpected Challenges

Caregiving is more than helping with meals or appointments. It often means stepping in during moments of forgetfulness, confusion, or overwhelm—especially for aging adults or individuals with health conditions that affect memory or organization.

Medications can be misplaced. Refills can be delayed. Systems can fail. And when they do, caregivers are left navigating complex healthcare systems under pressure.

If you’ve experienced something similar, you are not alone.

How to Prevent Medication Emergencies: Tips for Caregivers

To help other caregivers avoid the stress I went through, here are practical steps you can take to reduce the risk of lost or delayed medications:

1. Keep an Updated Medication List

Maintain a current list of all medications, including:

• Medication name and dosage

• Prescribing physician

• Pharmacy contact information

Keep this list both digitally and on paper.

2. Use a Weekly Pill Organizer

Pill organizers help caregivers quickly identify missed or missing medications and reduce daily confusion.

3. Store Medications in One Consistent Location

Designate one secure, visible place for medications and avoid moving them between bags or rooms.

4. Ask About Insurance Policies for Lost Medications

Many insurance plans allow a one-time lost medication override per year—but only if you ask.

5. Build a Relationship With the Pharmacy

Knowing your pharmacist can significantly speed up problem-solving during urgent situations.

6. Use Medication Reminder or Caregiver Apps

Apps and reminders can help caregivers track refills, dosages, and medication schedules—especially when memory challenges are involved.

A Reminder for Caregivers

Caregiving is unpredictable. Even with preparation, unexpected situations arise. What matters is advocacy, persistence, and self-compassion.

If you are caring for someone who depends on daily medications, planning ahead can save hours of stress—and protect your loved one’s health.

You’re doing important work. And moments like these remind us just how vital caregivers truly are.