Keep Track Of Your Medicines

USE MEDICINES WISELY

1. READ THE LABEL

Before you take any medicine, read the label. The label should show:

List of ingredients—If you know you are allergic to anything in the medicine, don’t use is. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a different medicine.

Warnings—Read these carefully.

The expiration date—Do not use a medicine after the date on the bottle. It may not work as well.

For more information on your medicines, ask your pharmacist.

2. AVOID PROBLEMS

Medicines can cause problems, or side effects; such as sleepiness, vomiting, bleeding, headaches or rashes. Ask about the side effects of the medicines you are taking. Talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse.

Organize your medicines.

Do not skip taking your medicines.

Do not share medicines.

Do not take medicine in the dark.

3. ASK QUESTIONS

• What is the medicine’s name?
• Is there a generic available?
• Why am I taking this medicine?
• Should I take this on an empty stomach or with food?
• Is it safe to drink alcohol with it?
• If I forget to take it, what should I do?
• How much should I take?
• How long am I to take it?
• What problems should I watch for?

If you are pregnant or nursing a baby, seek the advice of a health professional before taking any medication or diet supplement. Talk with your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. She/he will be happy to help you.

List any allergies:

Doctor:
Phone number:

4. KEEP A RECORD OF MEDICINES YOU USE

Check boxes for the ones you use:

• Aspirin or other pain/headache/fever medicine
• Allergy medicine
• Antacids
• Cold medicine
• Cough medicine
• Diet pills/supplements
• Laxatives
• Sleeping pills
• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Herbals
• Other

NAME:________

LIST YOUR PRESCRIPTION MEDICINES

KEEP THIS IN YOUR PURSE AND SHOW IT TO YOUR DOCTORS, PHARMACIST, OR NURSE.

Have your doctor, pharmacist or nurse report serious problems to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.