Ask questions


Your pharmacist lives and breathes medications all day. They are an incredibly knowledgeable resource you should use, especially if you’ve got a doctor who watches the clock during appointments. “Always ask for information about your medicines in terms you can understand,” says Malone, who suggests writing down these questions, and taking them with you, each time you fill a new prescription:
•What is this medicine for?
•How am I supposed to take it and for how long?
•What side effects are likely? What should I do if they occur?
•Is this medicine safe to take with other medicines or dietary supplements?
•What food, drinks, or activities should I avoid while taking this medicine?

Make sure to write down the answers and to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something your pharmacist says