Note: The contents of this blog are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or substitute for professional care. For medical emergencies, dial 911!
Sunday Seven: Seven ways for safe and effective drug use
Posted Jul 22nd 2007 8:00AM by Kristina Collins
Filed under: Drug, All Cancers, Sunday Seven
It is important to question your physician about the prescriptions you are given. Most doctors will talk to you about the medication prescribed, but it is still important that you know what you're taking and ask appropriate questions.
- Know the name of the drug. This will enable you to look up information about the drug on your own. It will also enable you to discuss the drug with your doctor or another doctor for a second opinion.
- What is the purpose of the drug? This information will help you to know and understand what this drug is supposed to do and will let you know if the treatment is actually working.
- What are the side effects? It is helpful to be aware of the most common side effects. All drugs have some side effects. Information about side effects can be obtained by asking your doctor or pharmacist or consulting a reliable reference.
Is a generic form of the drug available? Generic drugs are cheaper and are the same as the name brands. Most physicians will routinely prescribe the generic drug if available. Just in case though, it might be wise to ask if there is a generic drug for the one you have been prescribed.
What should I do if I miss a dose? This is something that needs to be discussed with your physician. You don't want to double up if the side effects would increase. In other instances it could be ok to skip the dose or make it up later in the day. This is something that would be unique to the drug that you are taking.
Are there any special instructions that go along with this prescription? Sometimes specific foods, alcohol, or other medications might react to the drug you are given. Be sure that your physician is aware of all other medications you are taking and and dietary or supplements you are using.
How and when should the medication be taken? The basic information should be on the product label. Some medications have to be taken on a certain schedule, some need you to have an empty stomach and others need you to eat something while talking the medication.
It is important to be aware of all these items when being prescribed medications. It is more important if you are taking more than one medication at a time. We should trust our doctors and their decisions but we also should be aware of what we are putting into our own bodies. You are you best advocate for receiving appropriate care.
Tags: drug, drugs, effects, generic, medications, name, pharmacist, prescription, prescriptions, prudent, references, script, side, understanding, use
