Get the Most from Your Pharmacist

Pharmacists play an important role in managing people’s health care. In addition to dispensing prescription medications, many pharmacies serve as health consultation centers.

To take advantage of your pharmacist’s expertise, you should consider your relationship as a partnership dedicated to making the most of your medications. This partnership also will help reduce expenses by eliminating improper and unnecessary medications.

It’s important to put as much effort into choosing a pharmacist as you would in choosing a physician. The American Pharmacists Association recommends using just one pharmacy so all your medication records are kept at one location. This reduces the risk for duplication and problems with drug interactions.

When choosing a pharmacist, look for one with whom you’ll feel comfortable discussing personal matters.

Make the partnership work

If you haven’t provided your current pharmacy with a list of the medications you take, you should do this as soon as possible. Don’t limit the list to prescription drugs. Include all over-the-counter medications and alternative remedies you take.

Pharmacists’ knowledge isn’t limited to drugs. They can offer advice on how to use test kits properly, answer first aid questions, and provide referrals to a variety of health care programs.

Ask questions

Knowledge is your best defense against improper use of medication. So ask these questions when you drop off a new prescription:

• What’s the name and purpose of this medication? It’s important to know what you take, especially in case of a medical emergency.

• What are the dosage instructions? Find out how often to take it, how much, and if it should be taken on an empty stomach or with food.

• How long should I take the medication? Stopping it too soon or taking it for too long could be dangerous.

• What foods, beverages, and activities should I avoid? Alcohol, other medications, foods, and physical activities sometimes affect the way a medication works.

• Is there a generic version? You usually can save money buying the generic product, and you usually don’t sacrifice quality.

• How should I store this drug? Your pharmacist can tell you the best place to store specific drugs to maintain their potency.