Manage Your Medications
Manage Your Medications
Whether you take one medication or many, it’s important to know what you are taking and why. Ask your doctor these questions about any new (and current) medications you take:
- What is the name of my medication? Generic name?
- Why am I taking it? How will it help? When will it start working?
- What dose? How often? How long?
- What is the best time (morning, night, etc.) or way to take it (with food, with water, etc.)?
- What are possible side effects? What do I do if they happen?
- Are there any foods, drinks, or activities to avoid?
- What do I do if I miss a dose?
Remember, Take Charge of Your Medications
Think you’re due for your next dose? Wondering if this new medication can replace one you already take? Want to make sure all your medications and supplements are safe to take together? Don’t be afraid to ask.
Prevent Medication Errors
Be sure your doctors and nurses know:
- All the prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and herbal or vitamin supplements you take
- Any allergies you have to medications, anesthesia, foods, latex, etc.
- That your name matches the name on the medication (hospital staff may scan your ID bracelet to double-check)