There
is a risk when you take any drugs. Prescription drugs
are meant to make you feel better. There are many
reasons why your doctor may prescribe them. If you
are careful, you can usually avoid the risks.
How
to Reduce Risks
At
the Doctor
Give
your doctor all the information you can.
Let
your doctor know if you have any health problems,
for example, diabetes or allergies. Some medications
might not be safe for you.
Tell
your doctor what else you are taking:
Prescription
drugs
Other
medicines
Alcohol
Other
drugs
At
the Pharmacy
Read
the printed information that comes with your medicine.
Ask if you don't understand.
1.
Make
sure you understand how and when to take the prescription
drugs.
You
need to know:
how often
what
time of the day, for example morning
or evening
amount
(how many tablets, drops, puffs, etc.)
if
you need to take them with or without
food
how
you should take them, for example, swallowing,
inhaling through the nose or mouth, applying
to an area of the skin, etc.
anything to avoid after taking
the medication, for example some foods, driving,
alcohol, and exercise.
2.
Ask what side effects or reactions you might have:
Some side effects could mean that the drug
is not the right one for you.
Talk
to your doctor or pharmacist if you get any
bad side effects or reactions that you are
not sure about.
Safety
with
Prescription Drugs
1.
Tell
your doctor everything
2.
Know
how to use your medication
3.Ask
if you are not sure about anything
3.
Ask
the pharmacist about anything that is
not clear, or that concerns you.
