Making the Most of Your Drugs

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When used wisely, medicine can help people live longer and healthier lives. However, drugs can have harmful, even fatal, effects when used inappropriately.

Your doctors and pharmacists work to ensure the drugs you take are right for you. And, by taking an active role in your own care, you can maximize the benefits and minimize the risks.

Most doctors and pharmacists welcome questions about the drugs you’re taking. AARP recommends asking the following questions whenever a new drug is prescribed:

Be Informed
Take Charge
Maintain Your Health
Be Safe

Be Informed

  • When do I begin this medicine?
  • Is there another kind of treatment I could try first?
  • How long do I have to take it? Will I take it forever or just until I feel better?
  • When do I take it? Every day? How many times a day? When during the day?
  • Where can I get printed information for consumers about this medicine? Can you give me a brochure?
  • Where on the Internet can I find more information about this drug?

Take Charge

  • Why is this the right medicine for me?
  • Is there another kind of treatment I could try first, before taking medication?
  • If this is a brand new drug, is there a less expensive drug that’s been on the market longer to treat my condition?
  • Are there side effects? If so, what? Is there a drug with fewer side effects?
  • Is there a different drug or dosage that could be better for someone of my age, gender or race?
  • Is it okay to begin with a low dose to see how that works?
  • Does a generic drug exist? If so, is the generic version okay for me to take?

Maintain Your Health

  • How will I know if this drug is working?
  • When should I expect this drug to begin working?
  • What do I have to do to find out if the drug is working?
  • What tests will I need while on this medicine?
  • If tests are needed, what baseline test do I take now?
  • What if I run out?
  • How many refills do I have?

Be Safe

  • How do I take this medicine? With or without food or drink?
  • How long before or after eating do I take it?
  • Is it okay to take this drug at the same time as other medicines?
  • Can you adjust the instructions for all my medications so I can take them all on the same schedule?
  • How do I store this medicine? In the refrigerator or somewhere else?
  • If I have trouble swallowing, can I split the pill or crush it into food?
  • Should I avoid any vitamins or over-the-counter drugs while I’m taking this drug?
  • Should I avoid a particular food or beverage?
  • Should I avoid any activities, such as driving or exercising?
  • How do I know if what I experience while taking this drug is dangerous?
  • What should I do if I experience side effects? Who should I call if I have a problem?
  • What’s the most important precaution I should keep in my mind while taking this drug?

Prescription Tips:

  • Ask your doctor to write on your prescription form the reason for your drug, and the brand and generic names to ensure the pharmacist gives you the correct drug.
  • Ask your doctor to avoid abbreviations on your prescription so no one misreads them.
  • Ask if aging will affect your reaction to a new drug. As we age, changes in our bodies affect how we react to drugs. Less saliva, slower stomach action, and differences in how our kidneys and livers work – make us process drugs differently than younger people.
Copyright ©2008 Trustmark Affinity Markets Marketing and Administration, Inc. Information in this newsletter may not be reproduced in whole or in part without permission from Starmark. The articles contained within this newsletter are not a promise of coverage and are not meant to replace professional medical advice or service. Personal health issues should be discussed with your physician. Refer to your Certificate of Insurance or Policy for benefit information.