Smart Meds
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Get Smart About Prescription Drugs!Learn how to take your medicines |
Tips on Taking Medications:
- Save! Buying Generic Drugs will save you money - Request them from your doctor and pharmacist.
- Make sure you take your medications as directed - Know the drug name, dosage and amount prescribed for you.
- Alert your doctor and pharmacist about over-the-counter drugs and any herbal products you are taking.
- Read the label carefully. If you have trouble reading the label ask someone for help.
- Take antibiotics for the full duration of treatment. Stopping early could do more harm than good.
- Medications should be stored in a safe place out of the reach of children and pets.
- Educate yourself. Be aware of possible interactions with other drugs, foods, and beverages while taking prescription medications, and know your allergies.
- Discard unused medications. They may be ineffective and even toxic if used past the expiration date.
- Stay on top of your refills! Don't wait until the last minute!
Always remember to:
- Brown Bag it! Prevent errors in taking medications by bringing medications, herbals, and supplements to each health care appointment so the provider can make safe and effective choices in prescribing medications. If you cannot bring your medicines to the appointment, bring a list with the name, dosage and frequency of the drug(s) written down. Community Health Improvement offers free medication forms upon request. Call us at (802) 847-2278 for more information.
- Ask those who know best! Your doctor or pharmacist can provide you with more information on your medications, generic alternatives, and affordable medication programs.
- Take a Closer Look at Generics. The cost of medicines continues to rise, however generic drugs cost much less. Regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), generic drugs contain the same active ingredients and are proven therapeutically equivalent to their name-brand counterparts. In Vermont, pharmacists regularly dispense generics (if available) to replace name-brand drugs unless the prescribing physician advises against substitution or if the patient refuses.
Need help affording your medicines?
Fletcher Allen Health Care's Health Assistance Program offers affordable medications for patients who rely on drug therapy but cannot afford it. To see if you may be eligible for low-cost of free medications call (802) 847-6985.
If you are an employer who wants to educate your staff about taking medicines safely, effectively and affordably, inquire about the Smart Meds consumer education program offered through Employer Health Management. Call Lori Smith at (802) 847-6543.
Helpful Links:
For more information on prescription and over-the-counter medications, their affordability and efficacy, visit the following links (Fletcher Allen Health Care is not responsible for the content of any of these sites):
www.fda.gov/cder/drug/default.htm
Page updated January 2007.
