Wise use of medications

Medications are substances used to treat or prevent disease and illness. Some medications are available over the counter (OTC). Others require a prescription from your doctor.


Prescription medications
When your doctor prescribes a medication, make sure you understand exactly why you need to take it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist the following questions, as suggested by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):
What are the brand and generic names of the medication?

How is the medication supposed to work?

When and how should I take the medication? For how long?

Can I take the medication on an empty stomach or should I eat first?

What should I do if I miss a dose of the medication?

What are the possible side effects of the medication?

How should I store the medication?

Is it safe to drink alcohol or take other medications while I take this one?
Always read the medication label carefully. Make sure the medication is what your doctor ordered. Also, talk to your doctor about any new medications or supplements you're taking to avoid possible problems with existing medical conditions, as well as interactions with other OTC medications, prescription medications or nutritional supplements.

If you receive a medication sample from your doctor, make sure you receive clear, understandable directions -- preferably in writing. Ideally, the medication should be labeled with your name and instructions regarding dosage and frequency.


Medication compliance
Take your medication as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Prescription medications are most effective when taken at the same time every day. It can be easy to forget to take medication or become confused by multiple medication schedules. If you take medication several times a day or take many different medications, it may be helpful to set out the day's or week's supply in a divided pill box (available at most pharmacies). Some people prefer to keep a medication calendar in which they record the medication and time it was taken.
Always consult your doctor before you stop taking a particular medication. Although you may be tempted to stop taking your medication because you feel better or it causes an unpleasant side effect, this can do more harm than good. The ailment may recur, or you may experience withdrawal symptoms or complications.


Antibiotics
Many people request prescriptions for antibiotics for various symptoms or ailments, such as the common cold. Antibiotics are only effective for infections caused by bacteria, however. Improper or unnecessary use of antibiotics helps bacteria develop resistance, eventually rendering the antibiotic ineffective for the treatment of certain bacterial infections. Unnecessary use of antibiotics also leads to potential side effects, some of which may be serious or life-threatening.

Over-the-counter medications
Over-the-counter medications are available without a prescription. Common OTC medications include fever reducers, pain relievers, cough syrups, cold remedies and vitamins. Although these medications are available without a prescription, they can be harmful if taken incorrectly. They can also have side effects. Always read the label and consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. If you have a history of kidney or liver disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or already use prescription medications, consult your doctor before taking any nonprescription medications.

Side effects
It's important to take medications that are right for you based on your current health status and medical history. Any medication can potentially cause various side effects. If you have any concerns about a side effect you're experiencing, contact your doctor.
Common medication side effects may include:

rashes
nausea, upset stomach or vomiting
appetite loss
fatigue
If you experience any of the following side effects or new symptoms while taking any type of medication, consult your doctor immediately:

confusion
excessive sleepiness
accidental falls
bleeding that won't stop
increased bruising

Medication allergies
Medications can sometimes cause a severe, life-threatening allergic response called anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency. The first symptom may be a feeling of impending doom. Other symptoms may include:
hives (a sudden bumpy or welt-like, itchy rash)
difficulty breathing
wheezing
swelling of the throat, tongue, lips or eyes
difficulty swallowing
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or abdominal cramps
chest tightness
seizures
shock
Anaphylaxis is life-threatening. Call 911 immediately for medical assistance!


Precautions for women of childbearing age
If your last period was more than 30 days ago or there's any possibility of being pregnant, contact your doctor before taking any prescription or nonprescription medications.
If you're taking birth control pills, beware that other medications may reduce the effectiveness of the pill. Mention the type of birth control pill you take to any doctor who prescribes a new medication for you. Consult your doctor with any questions or concerns.


Pregnancy-specific information
If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your doctor about the safety of any prescription or nonprescription medication you're considering taking. Remember, some medications can travel to a developing baby through the placenta. Likewise, certain medications can be transmitted to a nursing baby through breast milk.

Considerations
Keep a current list of all medications you take. Remember to include OTC and prescription medications, vitamins, and dietary and herbal supplements. Also include any medication allergies you may have. Bring this list with you to all doctor appointments or if you go to the hospital for any reason.
Periodic checkups are important to evaluate your health, re-evaluate your medication needs, and address any problems or any adverse effects you may have.

Never take anyone else's medication, even if you have the same symptoms.


Purchasing medication outside the United States
You may be familiar with people going to Canada or Mexico to purchase medications at a lower cost or without a prescription from a doctor. You may also have heard about people purchasing medication from other countries through the Internet. As debate about this practice continues on state and national levels, keep in mind that these medications may be unsafe, ineffective or even illegal.
For example, labeling and instructions may be in a language you don't understand or may not include all the information you need to safely take the medication. Also, these medications may not go through the same quality assurance procedures required in the United States. If you're considering purchasing medications outside the United States or through the Internet, especially prescription medications, discuss it with your doctor.