Starting a new medication can feel confusing. You may have questions on what the medication does, how to take it, and if it is safe for you. Pharmacists are trained medication experts that can help you. There are here to help you understand your treatment. Asking the right questions can help keep you safe and improve your health outcomes. In this blog, you will learn important questions to ask before taking your new medication according to the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC).

What Is This Medication and What Does It Treat?

Be sure to ask the name of the medication you are being given. In addition to what condition it is meant to treat. Some medicines have similar names or look alike. Which can lead to confusion. Knowing the medication name and purpose helps prevent errors. As well a supports safer care. The CDC emphasizes that understanding medications is an important part of medication safety.

How and When Should the Medication Be Taken?

Before starting your new medication, you should ask how much of the medicine to take. Along with how often to take it, and how long it should be used for. Some medicines work bests when taken with food. While others should be taken on an empty stomach. Certain medications also need to be taken at a specific time of day. Taking medicine the wrong way can reduce its effectiveness or cause side effects. Both the CDC and Mayo Clinic stress the importance of following the instructions from a Pharmacist or the medication label. 

What Side Effects Should Be Watched For? 

All medications can cause side effects. Many side effects are mild, such as nausea, headache, or feeling tired. These may improve as the body adjusts to the medication. However, some side effects can be serious and need medical care right away. Such as trouble breathing, swelling, or severe rash. Pharmacists can explain which side effects are common and which ones require immediate medical attention.

Will the Medication Interact with Other Drugs or Supplements?

With your Medical Care Provider and Pharmacist you should share your complete lists of medications. This includes prescription drugs and over-the-the-counter medicine. In addition to vitamins and herbal supplements. Some medications can react with each other. This can lead to causing harm. The Mayo Clinic warns that mixing certain medicines can increase the risk of side effects. This can sometimes reduce how well the medication works. 

What Should Be Done If a Dose is Missed?

Missing a dose can happen. It is key to ask what to do if you forget to take a dose. Some medications can be taken once you remember. While others should be skipped if it is close to you next dose. The CDC says you should ask this question if the medication instructions are unclear.

How Should the Medication Be Stored?

Proper storage helps keep your medicine safe and working properly. Some medicines need to be kept in the refrigerator. While others should be stored away from heat, light, or moisture. Your Pharmacist can also give you guidance on keeping your medications safely stored away from kids.

Visit Clinicas 

Medication safety starts with asking the right questions. Knowing what to ask your Pharmacist before starting a new medication can help you stay safe. As well as feel more confident about your care. At Clinicas del Camino Real, Inc., our Pharmacy Care Team is here to support you. Our Pharmacists help explain how to take your medications, check for safety, and answer your questions in a clear and easy way. They also work closely with your Clinicas Medical Provider to support your treatment plan. With two pharmacy locations at the RSJ Health Center in Oxnard and the Ventura Health Center, we make it easier to get the medications you need. We also offer delivery to the Clinicas Health Center closest to you for added convenience.