With our busy lifestyles, running to the pharmacy is just that: racing in and out as quickly as possible. Is this placing employee health in danger? Well, it could be. It's ultimately up to each of us to filter what substances go into our bodies.
Check Your Medicine
Even before paying for the medication, you should check the name, medication, and dose to ensure that the prescription has been correctly filled and belongs to you. Pharmacies require personal information such as name, date of birth, Social Security number (for insurance), or driver’s license number to guarantee that the medication is dispensed to the right individual. But it doesn't hurt to check.
Prescription Questions
Be aware of what you are putting into your system. Ask questions. The pharmacist is there not only to fill prescriptions, but also to answer questions. Know the answers to these questions before taking the medication:
- What is the name of the medicine?
- What is it supposed to do?
- How and when do I take it and for how long?
- What do I do if I forget to take the medicine?
- Are there any side effects?
- What should I do if I experience any side effects?
- Is there an information sheet about this medication?
- Are there any interactions with other drugs you are taking? (Check here to find out.)
Next time you head to the pharmacy to pick up a prescription, don’t rush. Take the time to check the prescription and ask questions for your own safety.