Taking multiple medications means greater risk for side effects and interactions with other prescriptions, which is why there are many questions you should ask your doctor about the drugs they prescribe.

“It’s common for people to have prescriptions from multiple health care providers to treat chronic conditions,” said Dr. Wesley Fox, family medicine physician at Marshfield Clinic.

Doctors balance the risks and benefits of prescribing new medications, but it is important for patients to know about their medications and be their own health advocates.

Ask questions about new prescriptions

“Patients should play a big role in their health care,” Dr. Fox said. “Ask questions each time you get a new prescription.”

Here are questions you should ask your doctor or pharmacist about every drug you take:

• Why do I need this? Understanding why you need to take a medicine will help you manage your own health better, giving you control over your health decisions.
• Are there non-pharmaceutical or over-the-counter options to treat my condition? Non-pharmaceutical or over-the-counter medicine options may reduce the cost of your medication and have less side effects.
• How do I take the medication? It is important you understand how to take the medication so you do not overdose or have side effects from the medicine. Some medicines also have a very specific way to take the medication (with food, at night, etc.). Your pharmacist should discuss this with you when you pickup the prescription.
• What do I do if I miss a dose? It is common for people to miss a dose, but it can cause serious health issues. Talking to your doctor about what to do if you miss a dose is important.
• How long will I need to take this? Some medicines are meant to be taken for short periods, while other medications are taken for longer periods to help manage chronic illnesses. You should ask this question to make sure you do not stop the drug early.
• Can I do anything to get off this medication? There are some medications that are meant to be taken for long periods to manage chronic illness. However, in some cases lifestyle changes you make may allow you to stop taking the medication. For example, people with type 2 diabetes can make lifestyle changes so they may be able to take fewer medications.
• What are common side effects? Understanding common side effects and what to look for is important to ensure your safety. If you experience side effects, your doctor may choose a different medication or treatment option for your condition.
• Are there any long-term risks or can I become dependent (addicted) to this medicine? Some medications can increase your risk for other health conditions. Other medications, such as opioid pain medications, can lead to addiction. Understanding these risks will help you better manage your health.
• Are there drug interactions with medications I already take? It is important that your doctor knows what other prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines you are taking when you get a new prescription. Certain medications can interact with your other medicine.
• Does this drug interact with any food, alcohol or require any lifestyle changes? Some medications interact with certain foods or alcohol, while others may require lifestyle changes. Knowing this before you take a new medicine is important.
• Is this medication covered by insurance? Are there more affordable options (generic medications or discount programs)? Your doctor may not know this answer when they prescribe you a medication. However, your pharmacist can work with you and your doctor to find medications that are covered, are generic options or have discount programs.
• How will I know if this medicine is effective? You are taking this medication to improve your health in some way. Some medications require you to monitor things like your blood sugar levels or blood pressure, while others require tests or scans to make sure they are working. Your doctor should discuss any plans with you to make sure the drug is effective.

Download Prescription Questions

Review medications yearly

“Patients should go over their medications with their primary care doctor at least once a year,” Dr. Fox said. “Ask if you still need the medications and if there are any new drug interactions you should know about.”

Bring a list of all your medications and their doses. Include over-the-counter medicines and supplements, which sometimes interact with prescription drugs. Consider bringing this list to all appointments if you get prescriptions from several providers.

Ask to review your medications sooner if you have side effects or common signs of drug interactions such as gastrointestinal problems, rash, fatigue or dizziness. Seek immediate medical help if you are having trouble breathing or cannot urinate even though you feel the urge.

Take medications as directed

Take prescriptions according to your doctor’s instructions and over-the-counter drugs according to directions on the label. Pay attention to instructions like “as needed,” “until gone” and “with food.”

There are tools like medication tracking apps and pill organizers that you can use to organize your medications. Some pharmacies can also package each medicine you take daily into a small package. This allows you to open the package and take all your medicine for that day and time. Mailing your long-term medication to you is also an option for many people.

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For medication questions, talk to a Marshfield Clinic Health System pharmacist.

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