You are sitting down at your exam watching your doctor scribble down your prescription, and you just want to hurry up and leave. Stop. Before you think about all the errands you have to run, or about getting back to work, think about yourself.
It will only take a few minutes to ask your doctor these eleven essential questions about your prescription. Save some time in the long run, and save your health.
1. What is the name of this prescription?
Know the name of the medicine you are taking, because if you are seeing several physicians, it is essential to provide the specific name in order to receive the best and safest diagnosis. This also includes over the counter drugs, herbal or dietary supplements. On RememberItNow! you can easily track all the medications you are currently taking and print the list to take to your next appointment with your doctor.
2. Is there a generic brand of my medication?
It doesn’t hurt to ask if there is a less expensive version of the brand name counterpart prescribed. Your doctor can still answer questions about its safety, side effects, and more.
3. Are there side effects or risks with my prescription?
It is normal to anticipate low-risk side effects with most medications and your physician will explain them to you. However, if you are experiencing symptoms not described by your physician it is important to contact them. If your symptoms are putting your health at a dangerous risk and you feel you need immediate help, call 911 or find the closest emergency room. By writing down your prescription list on RememberItNow! and tracking notes on your list, you can immediately know and double-check if your symptoms feel unusual.
4. What exactly is the function of my prescription?
You must know why you are taking your medication and the purpose it serves, whether it treats your entire symptoms or one. To keep track of your medications and what they are taken for, you can make notes in RememberItNow! You can also invite your doctor or other care givers to participate and help you.
5. When and how should I take my medicine? And can I stop if I feel better?
It’s important to take the right medication, at the right time, in the right dose. Don’t feel bad about taking notes when the doctor tells you the schedule. Sometimes it’s hard to remember exactly how to take your medications and the instructions on medication packages are often hard to read. RememberItNow! can help you stick to your medication schedule by sending you reminders and instructions.
Many people stop taking their medicine because they feel better, but this may be a mistake. Be sure to contact your physician for approval before you stop taking any medication.
6. Does my medical history increase my chance of getting an allergic reaction?
Certain common conditions such as, asthma and hay fever can induce allergic reactions to medication. Ask your doctor specifically about antibiotics and over- the-counter pain medicine.
7. What should I avoid when taking this medication?
Consider what foods, drinks, or activities that might interact with your medicine, especially with alcohol. It is always important to ask this because their might be common things to avoid. For example, not many people know that grapefruit juice reacts with Lipitor (atorvastatin) or other medications used for high cholesterol.
Forgetting to take medications is common. Note the instructions your physician gives you if you miss a dose of your medication. These instruction will vary with the type of medication you take. With RememberItNow! this can easily be avoided; instructions are easier to follow.
9. When do I begin to feel the effects of my medication?
Know what to expect when you are taking your medication. With RememberItNow! you can track how you feel daily so you can give your doctor a printed or emailed report of how you feel since your last visit.
10. Will I have to take any tests while on this medication?
If you do have to take an exam, you can easily track your appointment on RememberItNow! You can also note new instructions given that you might want to add with your electronic eminders.
11. Can I use this medication if I am breastfeeding or pregnant?
New mothers should always ask this, and RememberItNow can help new moms with taking vitamin supplements, breastfeeding, and any other medication.
By asking these questions, you can save your health and your time. Our medication reminders and tracking service at RememberItNow! can help you take the right medication, at the right time, and in the right dose. So stop worrying and use all the services RememberItNow has to offer. It’s the best way to to take control of your health, or the health care of someone you love.
Tags: allergy, assisted living, diet, Healthcare, medication compliance, rememberitnow
