Questions To Ask About Your Medicines

The American Heart Association encourages patients and their healthcare teams to actively discuss all aspects of their treatment regimens, including diet changes, physical activity and medicines. By taking medications exactly as prescribed and following appropriate lifestyle recommendations, patients can reduce their risk of heart attack or stroke and achieve the fullest benefits from a treatment plan.

Taking medications isn't always as simple as swallowing a pill. Medicines can only help you if you take them as prescribed. It's important to take part in decisions regarding your treatment and follow the treatment plan you and your doctor agree on. Watch for problems and be actively involved in solving them with your healthcare team. Healthcare providers should give patients information about their prescribed medicines, and adjust their treatment plan if they have serious side effects.

By reviewing the following questions with their healthcare providers, patients can take an active role in decisions about their treatment plan.

You should ask these questions:

What is the name of the medicine? Is this the brand or generic name?
What is the medicine supposed to do?
How and when do I take it — and for how long?
What foods, drinks, other medicines or activities should I avoid while taking this medicine?
What are the possible side effects? What do I do if they occur?
Can you give me any written information about the medicine?

This content is reviewed regularly. Last updated 12/9/08.