How to get the most out of your pharmacist
By: Alicyn Magruder and Alex Schmuke, PharmD Candidates 2016
What to talk to your pharmacist about:
- Let your pharmacist know what conditions you have.
- Tell your pharmacist if you are having any problems or side effects with your current medicines.
- Before taking an over-the-counter (non-prescription) medication or herbal therapy, ask your pharmacist about any possible drug interactions or side effects.
- Tell your pharmacist if you do not believe the medicine is helping.
Questions to ask your pharmacist:
- What is the name of the medicine and what is it supposed to do?
- How much of this medicine should I take?
- When is the best time of day to take this medicine?
- Should I take this medicine with or without food?
- Are there foods or drinks that I should avoid while I am taking this medicine?
- What side effects can I expect from this medicine?
- Will this medicine interfere with any of my other medicines?
- Will this medicine make any of my conditions worse?
- What things should my doctor and I do to make sure this medicine is working properly?
- How should I store this medicine?
- What should I do if I miss a dose?
- How long should I take this medicine?
- Are there refills on the prescription?
- Are there any over-the-counter (non-prescription) medicines I should avoid while taking this medicine?
- Ask about any concerns you have regarding taking this medicine.
For more information visit the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists tips on using your medicine wisely. https://www.ascp.com/articles/tips-using-your-medicines-wisely