Health Flash

October is National "Talk about Prescriptions Month"

Talk About Prescriptions" is an annual public awareness campaign sponsored by the National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE). The campaign was launched in the mid-1980s to emphasize the important role of communication between consumers and health care professionals whenever medicines are prescribed and/or used.

Specifically, "Talk About Prescriptions" is designed to highlight an often-overlooked public health problem—inappropriate use of medicines. In the year 2000, nearly 3.0 billion retail prescriptions will be dispensed. But studies show that up to half of all prescribed medicines are used improperly. As a result, preventable medicine-related illnesses annually account for over $75 billion in doctors' visits, unnecessary prescriptions, absences and loss of productivity at work; increased emergency room visits, hospitalizations, nursing home admissions, and even death. In fact, it is estimated that adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are the 4th—6th leading cause of death in the U.S.

It is not always easy to take medicines as directed. And, it may be difficult to understand exactly what medicines are for, and what to do if side effects occur. Visiting more than one physician and using different pharmacies may make it hard to keep track of medicines.
All year round, but especially during "Talk About Prescriptions" Month in October, everyone is encouraged to take a moment to "Educate Before You Medicate."

Before You Leave the Doctor's Office, if You are Given a New Prescription, Ask:
1. What is the name of the medicine and what is it supposed to do? Is this the brand or generic name? (Is a generic version available?)
2. How and when do I take the medicine - and for how long?
3. What foods, drinks, other medicines, dietary supplements, or activities should I avoid while taking this medicine?
4. What are the possible side effects, and what do I do if they occur?
5. When should I expect the medicine to begin to work, and how will I know if it is working?
6. Will this new prescription work safely with the other prescription and non-prescription medicines I am taking?

At the Pharmacy, or Wherever You Obtain Your Medicines, Ask:
1. Do you have a patient profile form for me to fill out? (If not, then create your own by clicking on Medication List. Print this out, complete the form and show it to your pharmacist before your prescription is filled.) Will it include space for my non-prescriptioin drugs and any dietary supplements?
2. Is there written information about my medicine? Ask the pharmacist to review the most important information with you. (Ask if it's available in large print or, if necessary, in a language other than English.)
3. What is the most important thing I should know about this medicine? Ask the pharmacist any questions that may not have been answered by your doctor.
4. Will any tests or monitoring be required while I am taking this medicine?
5. Can I get a refill? If so, when?
6. How should I store this medicine?

Adapted from www.talkaboutrx.com