Dos and Don'ts for Prescription Medications

Modern medicine has come a long way in its efforts to improve the quality of our lives. Prescription medications have played a huge role in this. But medications can have serious side effects when they are not taken properly or when they are combined with other over-the-counter drugs, prescription drugs, supplements, or natural remedies. Here are some simple "dos & donts" to help minimize negative consequences.

Prescription Medication Dos:

• DO follow the exact dose and schedule prescribed by your doctor.
• DO ask your doctor about any possible side effects to watch for, and report any that you experience.
• DO ask your doctor about any and all over-the-counter drugs, prescription drugs, supplements, or natural remedies that you are taking or want to take.
• DO talk with your doctor about over-the-counter drugs, prescription drugs, supplements, or natural remedies if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Some medications or supplements may not be safe during these times.
• DO ask your doctor or pharmacist how to take your medicine properly (ie, with or without food?, with or without milk?, with extra water?).
• DO tell your doctor about past problems you've had with drugs, such as rashes, indigestion, dizziness, or appetite loss.
• DO keep a daily record of the drugs you are taking.
• DO review your drug record with each of your doctors at each visit, and when any doctor prescribes a new medicine.
• DO ask your pharmacist for large print if you cannot read the label.
• DO check the expiration date and throw out any expired medications.
• DO call your doctor right away if you have any problems with your medicine.
• DO plan ahead for refills so that you don't run out.

Prescription Medication Donts:

• DO NOT stop taking a prescription drug unless your doctor says it is okay.
• DO NOT take more or less than the amount prescribed.
• DO NOT mix alcohol and medicine unless your doctor specifically says it's okay.
• DO NOT take medications prescribed for someone else.
• DO NOT let anyone else take medications prescribed for you.
• DO NOT crush tablets unless you check with your doctor or pharmacist. Some medications (eg, long-acting formulations) have special coating and cannot be crushed.