In the United States, adverse drug effects lead to over 500,000 emergency cases almost every year. Of those cases, 35% to 45% could be avoided if they asked their pharmacist the right questions.
Are you starting a new medication? Don’t take it until you ask these five simple questions because it helps you understand your options.
Sadly, most people almost never ask their pharmacist any questions, let alone, the right questions.
At Gattis Pharmacy, we believe every patient should be safe when taking a new medication.
Always ask your pharmacist these 5 questions before taking that new pill.
1. What is this medication for — and how will I know it’s working?
This question helps you to understand…
- What the new medication is actually doing to your body
- How long before you start seeing results
- What to look out for to know if its working or not
By asking this question, you can track your progress, know what to expect, and even catch on problems early.
2. What are the side effects and which one should I be concerned about?
Every medicine has a side effect. Some side effects are easy and manageable while others can be serious.
It’s important to know if there are any serious side effects so that you can prepare yourself for it.
With normal side effects, you can almost go about your daily activities but that is not the same with a major side effect.
You can also ask the question like this…
“What are the normal side effects? And when should I call my doctor?”
An example of normal side effects can be headaches.
Dizziness and weakness can be considered not normal.
3. How will the drug work with my other medicines or supplements?
It is easy to forget that you are on other medications but mixing the wrong pills can be dangerous. Some meds don’t play well with others — even simple things like vitamins or herbal teas.
This question can save you from serious health problems.
Let’s say you’re taking a blood pressure pill and someone gives you an antibiotic.
Taking both pills together can cancel each other out or cause severe headaches and dizziness.
4. Should I take the drug with food or an empty stomach?
Some medications work better with food, some need food to avoid any form of stomach pain, and others do not require food at all.
This is easily an overlooked question and most people almost do not ask it.
Here’s an example…
- Some medications must be taken on an empty stomach in order to work properly.
- Some pain relievers might need food to work well or better.
- Some antibiotics don’t really need food. It works just okay.
5. What should I do if I miss a dose?
We all forget and life happens even to the best of us. It is easy to panic when you remember that you missed taking your medication.
The first thing you should do is to stay calm.
Basically, here is what you are really asking.
- Is it okay to skip a dose?”
- Should I take it as soon as I remember?
- Should I take two pills next time to catch up?
Asking this question before it happens brings you peace of mind.
Bonus Tips
If you’re taking more than one medication, things can get confusing fast.
At Gattis Pharmacy, we can help you create a simple med schedule — or even presort your pills in blister packs.
In Summary.
Do not jump to start a new medication. You have to make sure that you are well informed of the new drug and what it can do to you.
Don’t second guess. Don’t Google. Ask your Pharmacist.
At Gattis Pharmacy, we don’t just hand you a bag of pills and send you off.
We answer your questions and make sure you understand everything before you walk out.
