What you should know about your medications?

Names and phone numbers of all your healthcare providers. Names and phone numbers of all your pharmacies/pharmacists. Prescription and over-the-counter medications and the dosage of each one. Allergies and resulting reactions.

Why is important to know your medicines?

Medicines prescribed by a healthcare professional are meant to help you. However, if not consumed or taken care of properly, they may be harmful. The Know Your Medicine Corner aims to provide you with useful educational information to help you understand the use of medicines better.

Do patients know about medication?

Most patients (73%) were aware of the course and purpose of their medication. They were, however, unaware of side effects, needed lifestyle changes, and correct medication schedules. A large difference was found between levels of reported and correct knowledge about various issues regarding medication treatment.

How do you know when to take medicine?

There is no simple answer to this question. However, as a general rule you should take medicine on an empty stomach (one hour before eating or 2 hours after). This is because many medicines can be affected by what you eat and when you eat it.

How can you encourage patients to take medication?

There are several ways to increase motivation to take medication as prescribed.

Think about why you are taking the medication in the first place.
Track progress in a journal.
Take your medication at a similar time each day.
Use a medication planner/pill box.
Enlist family and friends to help with these strategies.

Why is it important to give patients information on medicines supplied to them?

Patients require information to help them use their medicines safely and effectively, and to facilitate an understanding of the possible harms and benefits of treatment.

What is the purpose of medication?

A medication is a substance that is taken into or placed on the body that does one of the following things: Most medications are used to cure a disease or condition. For example, antibiotics are given to cure an infection. Medications are also given to treat a medical condition.

How do you explain medicine to a patient?

Rather than just write a prescription, say the name of the medication you are prescribing to the patient and ask the patient to repeat it. Also, discuss the qualities of the medication: type (e.g., tablet, liquid), color, size, texture, and shape.

How do you explain drugs to patients?

Advise: Provide medical advice about the patient’s drug use.

Explain that it is your role as his/her medical provider to convey health recommendations.
Recommend quitting before problems (or more problems) develop.
Refer patients with suspected co-occurring conditions (e.g., depression, pain) to a relevant specialist.