Mature Life Features

. . . they got the idea that

nothing is impossible.

I’ve been doing nothing

for the past several years.

= = = = =

10 Questions to

Ask About Drugs

By James Gaffney, Mature Life Features

Many patients, especially older adults, fail to ask their doctors or pharmacists about the prescription drugs they take.

To avoid adverse reactions to a prescribed medication, a list of 10 questions has been put together by the medical director of a major pharmaceutical firm.

1. For what specific condition or treatment are you prescribing this medicine?

2. Are there other treatment options available? Alternative drugs? Generics?

3. How am I directed to take this medicine? When? In what amount? With or without food?

4. How long will I remain on this medication — long-term for a chronic condition or short-term for an acute condition?

5. What are the potential side effects of this medicine?

6. Under what circumstances should I discontinue use of this medication and notify my physician — for example, vomiting, nausea, dizziness?

7. Are there conditions that would prevent me from taking this medication, such as high blood pressure.

8. Have I told my doctor about all other medications I’m taking, both over-the-counter and prescription?

9. If I am taking other medications, is there an increased risk for potential side effects or adverse reactions?

10. After reading the information provided by the drug manufacturer and my pharmacist, do I have additional questions?

You should also:

— Provide every physician treating you with an up-to-date list of prescribed and over-the-counter medications being taken;

— Alert any health-care professional treating you (including your pharmacist) to details of your personal and family history that might impact your tolerance for, or reaction to, a particular

medication;

— Take prescribed medication exactly as indicated; never exceed or skip a recommended dosage;

— Educate yourself about potential side effects and adverse reactions that could occur, and

— Never borrow or lend prescribed medications from or to friends or family members.