Taking even the simplest of medicines may be more complicated than people think. For instance, some medications should be taken with meals, others either hours before or after meals. Some may make you drowsy, while others may keep you awake. Caffine or alcohol, other medications (both prescription and over-the-counter), certain foods, or smoking also may affect the way your medication works. Some medications have side effects that are barely noticeable or mildly bothersome; other side effects may require medical attention.

Most people need to take medication at some time in their lives, may it be over-the-counter (non-prescription) medication or medication prescribed by a doctor, nurse, or other health care practitioner. Regardless of how often you take medication, information about their use enables you to get the full benefit of the medication you take. A good source of this information is the printouts that most pharmacies give out with the new prescriptions you receive. Please take the time to read this information. If you have any questions do not hesitate to call your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for specific information about it. If it will help you remember what they tell you, write down the information.

Some medications may cause unwanted conditions or symptoms. These are called side effects. Some side effects may need medical attention while others may not as mentioned before. It is important to know what side effects may occur and what you should do if you notice signs of them. Again the printouts given at the pharmacy contains information as well. If you notice any unexpected reactions or side effects, check with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

It is also a good idea to learn both the generic name (what the drug itself is called) and the brand name (the name the manufacturer gives its version of the drug) of your medications, and to write these names down to keep for future use.

Many prescriptions may not be refilled unless your pharmacist has checked with your doctor first. To save time, do not wait until you have run out of your medication before requesting a refill. (Thus refill information is always on your prescription bottles). This is very important if you must take your medication each day and not miss any doses.

The answers to questions about your medications begin with you. What you learn will help you get the full benefit out of your medications.