Managing the Safety and Benefits of Your Medications

Your Pharmacist and pharmacy staff play an important role in safe medication use. There is a system of checks and double checks designed to optimize the safety of patients. You are a part of the team along with your Doctor, nurse and pharmacy staff to make sure you are taking the right drug at the right time, in the correct way. To accomplish this, you need to know as much as possible about your medications. It is very important to inform your Doctor, nurse, and pharmacy staff of other medicines you are taking, including herbals, vitamins, and dietary supplements.

You are a part of that team every time you take your medication. It is important that you double-check that you are taking the right dose of the right medication, at the right time, and in the correct way. To do this you need to know as much as possible about your medications.

Below are a few tips to help ensure medication safety for you and your family. For more medication safety tips or to download a copy of "Your Medicine: Play it Safe" which includes a medication record log, visit www.ahrq.gov/consumer/safemeds/safemeds.htm

Keep a current list of all the medications, herbals, vitamins, and dietary supplements you are taking.
Share this list with your health care professional.
Tell your Doctor and pharmacist of drug allergies or sensitivities you have.
Know the name of the medication(s) you are having filled at the pharmacy.
Make sure you understand the directions.
Ask what to do if you miss a dose.
If possible, use the same pharmacy for all your medicine needs.
When to take the medication (with or without food)
How to refill the medication if necessary.
How to store the medication
What did the Doctor tell you to expect from the medication
What to do about possible side effects
What monitoring will need to be done

Keep a list of your medications and the time of day you need to take each medication. This is a good way to organize and keep track of what medications you take each day and keep from missing doses. Ask your pharmacist to review your medication list and schedule. Take your prescriptions to the same pharmacy each time if possible. This way the pharmacy staff can watch for drug interactions.

Remember to communicate any concerns or questions with your healthcare professional.