What to Ask Your Doctor When Getting a Prescription

over the counter medicine

Understanding the importance your medication plays in your treatment will help you get the most benefit from your prescription. It is important to take an active role in your healthcare by working with your doctor, nurse and pharmacist to learn as much as possible about your prescription.

The U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality recommends asking these questions when you are prescribed a new medication:

  • What is the name of the medicine?
  • What is it supposed to do?
  • Is it OK to substitute a less-expensive generic drug for the name brand?
    Will it achieve the same effect?
  • What is the dose of the medicine?
  • Are there foods, drinks, other medicines, or activities I should avoid while taking this drug?
  • What are the possible side effects? What should I do if they occur?
  • How many refills of this prescription can I get?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose?
  • What should I do if I accidentally take more than the recommended dose?
  • Is there written information I can take home? (Most pharmacies have information sheets that you can use as an at-home reference.)

You can help ensure you are receiving the correct medication by asking the doctor to confirm the medication and dosage. And the AARP offers the following tip:  Ask your doctor to write on your prescription form the reason for your medication and the brand and generic names of your medication. This helps the pharmacist double check that you receive the correct medicine.

 

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Copyright ©2009 Trustmark Life Insurance Company. Information in this newsletter may not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission from Trustmark Life Insurance Company. The articles contained within this newsletter are not a promise of coverage and are not meant to replace professional medical advice or service. Personal health issues should be discussed with your physician. Refer to your Certificate of Insurance or Policy for complete benefit information.
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