How to Interpret What Rx Labels Mean

Millions of people receive prescription medications each year. According to a 2006 study in the Annals of Internal Medicine, 46 percent of adults misunderstand at least one of their prescription labels. Not understanding an Rx label and following its instructions can lead to improper medicating and the potential risk of serious health problems and overdose. Each pharmacy's labels can vary slightly, but they are all required to provide specific information.

Instructions

• 1

  Check the top of your label. It should list your pharmacy and its information. Verify this information is correct. Below that you will usually find your prescription number. This is the number you will need when it comes time to refill the prescription.

• 2

  Check the next lines for your name and personal information. Verify that this information is correct and that they have given the medication to the correct person. Below that should be the directions for use. If it says to take the medication two times a day, it should be taken every 12 hours. If it says to take three times a day, it should be taken every eight hours.

• 3

  Check that the next section of the label lists the drug name, dosage, and sometimes it will provide a small print description of what the medication should look like. It is important to examine the pills and match them to the description.

• 4

  Read the bottom of the label to find the quantity of refills available and the expiration date for the prescription. Check this information, and if no refills are shown and this is a regular medication, be sure to contact your doctor or pharmacy before you run out.

• 5

  Look for bright colored stickers that may also be placed on the bottle. These are usually warnings or special recommendations. You will find these labels to say things such as "Take with food," "Do not drive or operate heavy machinery," or "Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight." Follow these warning labels.