Medications

Use Them Safely and Wisely

The following consumer information and resources can help you work with your health professionals to make the best medication choices, and to use medicine so it's as safe and effective as possible.

• Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you take, especially if a different physician prescribes them. Include over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin and ibuprofen as well as vitamins, herbal supplements and weight-loss products.
• Alert your doctor and pharmacists about allergies to medications and other products often used, such as latex. Also alert all hospital nursing staff involved in your care. Be sure to mention these allergies to all health care providers involved in your care and treatment.
• Tell your doctor and pharmacist about adverse reactions to any medications or anesthesia you have had in the past, no matter how long ago it occurred.
• When your doctor writes you a prescription, make sure you can read it. If you can’t read your doctor’s handwriting, including his signature, your pharmacist may not be able to either. Also ask about generic alternatives that might be given.
• Ask your doctor about the medication being prescribed. How will it help your diagnosed condition? How should the medicine be used, and what is the dosage?
• Ask your pharmacist and doctor for information about your medicines in terms you can understand:
• • What is this medicine for and how should I take it?
  • How much should I take? For how long?
  • Is this medicine safe to take with my other medications or dietary supplements?
  • What food, drink or activity should I avoid while on the medication?
  • What side effects should I expect and how should they be handled?
    
• When you pick up your prescription, ask: Is this the medication my doctor prescribed? If it is a refill, question the pharmacist if the shape or color is different.
• Make sure you can read the prescription label and understand the instructions and any warnings. If it is a liquid, ask the pharmacist about the best device to measure the dose and make sure you know how to use it.