There are five questions that you should ask your Pharmacist before you leave the prescription counter. They are:
1) What is the name of the drug?
2) What is this drug used for?
3) How should I take this drug?
4) What should I do if I miss a dose?
5) Does it come as a generic?
1) What is the name of the drug?
The first step to avoiding a medication error is to know the name of the medication that you are taking. This may sound simple but it is not. Knowing the names of your drugs is difficult because most drugs have two different names. Drugs have a “brand name” and a “generic name.” Your doctor or pharmacist will tell you the name of your new drug and if it is the brand name or generic form.
2) What is this drug used for?
The second question that you need to ask your Pharmacist is “What is this drug used for?”
Many times the doctor will use medical terms that we do not understand. Often we are too embarrassed to ask him to explain what he means. The pharmacist is able to explain this to you. You just need to ask.
3) How should I take this drug?
Prescription directions are confusing. Most people have questions about the directions on the prescription bottle. Even if the prescription label says “Take one tablet every day” most people still have questions. Answering these questions is a big part of what the pharmacist in the community drugstore does. He or she expects that you will have questions and concerns about your medications and is readily available to help you. This will help to prevent medication errors and make sure you are taking your medications correctly.
4) What should I do if I miss a dose?
The answer to this question is dependent on the drug that you are taking. Generally, the recommendation is that is if it is near the time to take the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule. However, you must be sure to ask your Pharmacist what to do regarding missed doses for each of your medications, as this may differ from drug to drug. Whatever you do, do not double up on your doses. You need to contact your doctor or pharmacist for instructions if you have missed a dose.
5) Does this drug come as a generic?
Many drugs are available in the brand name and the generic form. Your pharmacist will recommend the generic form if he or she feels is it appropriate for you.
Remember, when you are picking up a prescription at the pharmacy counter and the pharmacist or pharmacy clerk asks you if you have any questions – please don’t say “No.” Say “Yes- I do have some questions,” and start to get the information that you need.
Mary Sue McAslan, Pharm.D.
America’s Family Pharmacist
DrMarySue@americasfamilypharmacist.com
http://www.americasfamilypharmacist.com
