Prescription and over-the-counter medicines help many people live longer, more active lives. When you take the right medicines the right way, they're safe and effective tools for good health. But using them incorrectly can harm you. The more medicines you take, the greater your risk of problems. You can protect your health by getting a checkup on your medications. Take these simple steps as outlined by the National Council on Patient Information and Education*.
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Make an appointment with your doctor or your pharmacist.
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Put all your prescription and over-the-counter drugs in a bag. Be sure to include:
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Prescriptions in vials, tubes, bottles and plastic bags
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Sleep and motion-sickness aids
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Headache remedies
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Cold remedies (liquid, capsules and tablets)
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Laxatives and upset stomach aids
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Other prescription or over-the-counter drugs you may be taking
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Vitamins and nutritional supplements
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Herbal remedies
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Remember to take all of your medications in their original containers if possible.
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Take the bag to your doctor or pharmacist and get him or her to go over all of your medicines with you.
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Ask questions about anything you don't understand.
If you're taking more than one medication or if you have trouble taking medications exactly as prescribed, schedule a medication checkup soon. If you think you don't need a medication checkup, take the Compliance Quiz. If you answer “yes” to any of the medication questions, then you probably could benefit from a medication checkup.
A checkup like this gives you the opportunity to ask your healthcare professional or pharmacist important questions about your medications. It can help you find dangerous medicine combinations you may be taking, medicines you may not need to take anymore, improper dosages of medicines, and mistakes that you may be making in taking them. Call your doctor or pharmacist today to schedule a medication checkup and take charge of your health.
*The link on this page is provided for convenience only, and is not an endorsement or assurance of the entity or any products or services.
This content is reviewed regularly. Last updated 12/10/08.
