Know Your Medications

• Know the name and doses of your medicines.
• Know why the medicine is important and what it treats.
• Read your labels to learn what you are taking, how and when to take it, etc.
• Know side effects.
• Know how your medications interact with each other and any nonprescription drugs you may take, including pain killers, cold remedies and alcohol.
• Know what to do if you miss a dose.
• Know if you are allergic to any medicines.

Take Your Medicine!

• Make sure you take your medicine in the correct dose. Use the measuring cup that comes with liquid medicines.
• Take capsules or tablets whole, unless otherwise instructed.
• Take your medicines at the right time(s).
• Renew your medications in advance so you don't run out.

Keep Your Medications Safe

• Keep your medications out of direct sunlight and heat.
• Keep your medicine away from pets and children.
• Don't store your medications with other family member medicines or household cleaners.
• Keep medicines in their original bottles.

When You are in the Hospital

• Identify yourself to the nurse before you take given medications.
• Make sure your health care providers know all the medications you are taking.
• Make sure your care providers know any medication allergies you may have.
• Know which medicines you will need to take once you leave the hospital.

Other Tips

• Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have a problem taking the drug for any reason, including cost.
• Ask if there is a generic brand available.
• Make sure you got the right medicine from the pharmacy.
• Keep a list of all medications you take.
• Know your medicine allergies.
• Report unusual side effects.
• Ask if lower doses might be helpful depending on your age or any kidney or liver problems.