Most of us have taken a prescription medication for one condition or another at some point. While we may get a brief explanation from our doctor about the drug, most people will not take the extra steps to ensure they are using the medication as safely or effectively as they can be. In fact, by taking a few simple steps -- and asking some basic questions -- patients can greatly reduce the chance of harm that may be caused by drug interactions, allergies, or other potential problems.

The U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) -- an official public standards-setting body for prescription and over-the-counter medications in the United States -- recommends the following "things to know" about any prescription medications you are taking:

Know Why You Are Taking a Medication -- Although it sounds obvious, many people do not fully understand their diagnosis or condition -- the reason they're taking the medication in the first place. Ask your doctor to explain your condition in detail to you, and how he or she expects the medication to improve the course of your illness or its symptoms.

Know What to Expect -- Ask when you should expect to start feeling better or see an improvement, as well as potential side effects that may occur. Find out what you should do if you are not seeing the expected results within a certain timeframe or are experiencing side effects.

Know How to Take the Medication -- Your doctor or pharmacist should give you instructions for taking your medication. These are also listed on the bottle. However, it may require some extra vigilance to ensure you're getting the most out of your medication. For instance, if you are supposed to take a medication three times a day, ask if this means with breakfast, lunch and dinner, or every 8 hours. This can impact how effective the medication is. You should also ask whether you should get a refill; whether you can stop taking the medication once you start to feel better; what to do if you miss a dose; how to minimize any side effects; and whether there are any special blood or other tests required while you are taking the medication, e.g., a liver test if you are on a "statin" drug.

Know About the Medication -- Patients should know the category of drugs the medicine belongs to, the brand and generic name, the active ingredients it contains (some people are allergic to certain ones), and any potential complications it may cause if you are pregnant. Also important are any potential interactions with foods (grapefruit, milk and spinach are some common ones), other prescription medicines, pain medications, antihistamines, decongestants, or vitamins, minerals or other supplements. Detailed information about a medication is available in the information packet/insert stapled to the prescription bag. Patients should read this to get a good idea of what the medication is and understand important precautions to take.

Know Your Pharmacist -- While you may be accustomed to asking your doctor questions, you may not have the same relationship with your pharmacist. However, your pharmacist is a key part of your treatment team -- and the expert on topics such as how the medication prescribed will treat your condition, possible side effects, drug interactions and allergic reactions. Ask to speak to your pharmacist when getting a prescription filled. He or she is a wealth of information and often your most valuable resource.

One other important point is to keep an up-to-date list of all medications you are on and their dosages. This should be shared with your doctors, pharmacist and a family member or trusted friend. This can help prevent dangerous drug interactions and may be critical should a medical emergency occur. For brochures on patient safety and more information about prescription medications, visit www.usp.org and select "I am a Consumer."

Courtesy of ARAcontent