Whenever you are given a prescription for a new drug, make sure you
know the answers to these questions: *What is the name of the drug?
*What is it for?
*How many tablets should I take, and how often?
*Should I take the drug at particular times of the day (e.g., after meals,
or first thing in the morning)?
*Is the drug safe to take with other drugs or medicines that I am taking?
* Are there any particular side-effects I should watch out for?
The doctor should explain all these things to you when he pres-cribes
the drug, but if he does not -ASK. The directions for taking the drug will be
written on the container by the pharmacist. When you collect the
prescription be sure you understand these and check that they are the same
as the doctor told you. If you have any doubts about any of these questions,
ask the pharmacist who dispenses the drug.
It is vitally important hat you know what drugs you are taking. Keep a
list of your drugs and their dosages with you at all times. This will be
especially important if you have to visit a new doctor or go to hospital
unexpectedly.
Finally and most important, take your drugs exactly as prescribed.
This may sound obvious, but it is sometimes very difficult. If you take
several drugs, you may find it useful to write down the drugs you should
take at different times of the day. You can then put out the right bottles first
thing in the morning and set out your day’s supplies.