ABOUT THE MEDICINES THEY TAKE
- Fill all medicine prescriptions right away and have them renewed before they run out.
- Read your prescription and the label on the medicine bottle. Ask your doctor and pharmacist questions if you do not understand the label or the directions.
- Know the medicine's name and what it is supposed to do. Be sure you understand how and when to take it and for how long.
- Find out from your doctor or pharmacist what foods, drinks (including alcohol) and other medicines or activities to avoid while taking your medicine.
- Ask your health professional if there may be any side effects and what to do if they occur. Call your physician or pharmacist right away if you notice any unexpected changes after using your medicine, such as a rash, dizziness or a headache.
- Find out if the medicine will work safely with the other medicines you are taking.
- Ask your physician or pharmacist for written information about the medicine.
- Take all of your medicine doses on time. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist what to do.
- Never take medicine "holidays" -- stopping a prescribed medicine for any length of time without asking a health professional.
- Don't take a larger or smaller amount of medicine than the doctor prescribes.
- Don't stop a medicine on your own. Talk to the doctor or pharmacist first to find out when your treatment should end.
- Don't share medicines with family or friends.
- Ask your physician or pharmacist about medicine compliance aids to help you follow your medicine schedule fully and exactly.