How to Check Medications

In this "point-and-click" world we live in--some things are vital to check and check again. One of them is your prescription medications. Here I will review some basic principles for picking up prescriptions at your pharmacy--and how to develop a positive and therapeutic relationship with a vital member of your healthcare team: your pharmacist.

Things You'll Need

• A list of the medications you are going to pick up from the pharmacy
• A picture ID in case it is needed
• A list of any questions you may have regarding the medications

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Instructions

• 1

  Always know what medications you are picking up for yourself, your spouse or a friend. This may sound simple, but many people haven't a clue as to what they are supposed to be getting from the pharmacy--and if you do not know--how can you check? Also, remember to bring a picture ID with you in case it is needed for picking up medications such as narcotics.

• 2

  Check your prescriptions before you leave the pharmacy to make sure you have the medications you were expecting and the correct number of tablets. Sometimes the pharmacy may be out of a certain medication and may owe you some pills. Typically, the pharmacist will make a note of this right on a detachable label. Keep this label in a safe place, since you will need it to pick up the remainder of the medication in the future.

• 3

  Read the prescription label to be clear on what the medication is, how often it needs to be taken and if there are any special instructions such as not to take it with certain foods or fluids.

• 4

  Ask to speak directly and privately to a pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about your medication including what it is prescribed for and how to take it. Your pharmacist is a major part of your healthcare team who is often very underutilized. Take advantage of his/her knowledge to help you get back on the road to wellness.