Basics about Medication Use

An important action you can take to keep yourself and your family safe is to learn how to properly take, monitor and store your medications. Everyone is at risk for harmful side effects when taking certain medications, but there are steps you can take to be safe. These include:

1. Making a list of all your medications by name, how much and why you are taking them
2. Including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements and herbs on your list
3. Taking your list to every doctor visit; following all directions for taking your medications
4. Never taking a medication that someone other than a doctor gives you
5. Always asking questions when your doctor prescribes a new medication for you

Sometimes weighing the benefits and risks of taking medications is difficult to do, especially if you are feeling sick. Always be sure to talk with your doctor, pharmacist or another healthcare professional about each medication's benefits versus its risks. Always share your concerns or thoughts and, with their help, you can make a safer decision.

Questions to Consider Asking Your Doctor

• Why am I taking this medicine?
• When should I stop taking this medicine?
• What other medicines on my list should not be taken with this medicine?

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