Why you need to ask questions about your prescriptions
Because doctors and nurse practitioners are busy, it's up to you to ask questions, and make sure you are informed about what you're putting into your body and why.
Questions to ask whenever a medicine is prescribed
photo:USA.gov
- What is this medication going to do for me?
- Can you prescribe this by its generic name?(Costs less and has the same effects)
- How should I take this? Aalways follow the directions)
- How often should I take this? (Always take the medicine as prescribed)
- What could interfere with this medicine's actions? (Foods, drinks, exercise, supplements, other medicines and more can interfere.)
- What are the side effects of this medicine? (All medicines have "side" or other effects that could be harmful)
- What kind of reaction could I have if I stop taking this medicine? (Some medications tend can result in a harmful withdrawal reaction.)
- What negative reactions have other patients had to this medicine? (If you ever get a negative reaction, always call your doctor immediately and report your reaction; do not wait.)
- How likely is it that I may have a negative reaction to this drug? (If the likelihood is high, request a different medicine.)
If you doctor doesn't answer your questions about your prescription...
1. Read the insert that comes with the medicine. If you don't get one, ask your pharmacist to provide one. Read the insert and ask your pharmacist questions if necessary. The print is small, so you may need to invest in a magnifying glass.
2.Ask your pharmacist the above questions.
3. Ask the reference librarian at your local library to use the Physician's Desk Reference also called the PDR.
4. Look up your prescription or look online for drug reactions, drug interactions, and drug information; you can find the PDR online at :www.pdrhealth.com/home/home.aspx
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