Top 6 Questions to Ask Your Pharmacist

The next time you visit your local pharmacy, you might want to pose a few questions to your pharmacist.  It doesn’t matter if you’ve taken your medications for years or just a few days, you need to understand the medication you are taking and how they interact with your body.

So, what are the questions that you need to ask your pharmacist?

What is My Medication and What is It For?

When you call your pharmacy for a refill, you need to know the name of your medication.  You also need to know what it is for. Generic medications come in different sizes and colors.  Brand-name medications often combine two kinds of medicines.

You need to know the name of your medicine, so you would know what to tell your pharmacist when you follow up on your refill. This information is also important in case of an emergency. This will automatically inform any medical staff what your condition is.

How and When Do I Take My Medication?

When it comes to your medications, you need to know how and when to take it. There is no room for error. The way and the time you take your medication can affect the dosage. Some medications need to be taken at the same time every day while other medications need to be taken as prescribed even if you are already feeling better.

It might be a good idea to synchronize your medication, so you won’t miss out on scheduled doses. You can schedule a pickup date with your pharmacy to get your prescription regularly, usually on a monthly basis.

Are There Other Medications, Foods, or Drinks That I Need to Avoid?

Make sure to ask your pharmacist if there are foods or drinks that you need to avoid while taking your medications. There are medicines that you might also need to avoid as well.  These things can influence the effect of the medications that you’re taking.

Are There Side Effects?

Some medications have side effects, which can be common or dangerous. That’s why you need to ask your pharmacist what side effects to expect from your medications. You will also benefit from reading the prescription label, particularly the paragraph on possible side effects.

How Should I Store My Medication?

Medications need to be kept in a cool, dry place. Keep it away from humidity or harsh sunlight. Most people store it in the bathroom when it’s actually the worst place to store your medications. It can get humid when you turn on the shower.

Keep your medicine away from humidity. Some medications require refrigeration. Do not place your medication in the car or window sill as well. Keep your medicine in your carry on when traveling. It is always a good idea to ask your pharmacist how to best store your medication.

What Happens If I Miss My Dose?

Doubling-up on dosages after missing a dose may not be a good idea. Make sure to ask your pharmacist what to do if you miss a dose. Doubling up may put your health at risk, and you could wind up in the emergency room.

It is important to know the answers to these questions. If you are unsure about any of these questions, you might want to call your local pharmacy for inquiries.