Introduction
Your doctor is authorized to prescribe many different drugs to treat various medical conditions. Your responsibility is to know what your medications are and to take them as instructed.
Prescription drugs are powerful remedies to fight illness. Many medications have side effects or can interact with other drugs, supplements or foods. Watch for and report any potential side effects or reactions to your doctor.
Factors to Consider
Non-prescription medications (also called over-the-counter medications) are any drugs you can buy without having a prescription from a doctor. But just because you don't need a prescription for these drugs, don't assume they're safe or that you won't experience any side effects or reactions.
Common non-prescription medicines include antacids and acid reducers, bulking agents and laxatives, antidiarrheals, cold and allergy remedies and pain relievers. Drugs such as these are usually very helpful if administered correctly. Serious and severe health problems can occur if they are not. In some cases, they also interact with other prescription or non-prescription medications.
Changes in lifestyle and behaviours can limit the types and amount of medication you need to get well and stay well. There are a number of chronic illnesses -- including diabetes, high blood pressure and back pain -- that require less medication if you become more active, shed weight and eat a healthier diet. Counselling and support groups can also help with mental-health issues often treated with medication.
What You Can Do
Always tell your doctor what prescription and non-prescription medications you're taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and minerals, and herbal supplements. Keep an up-to-date list of these substances. Give your family a copy of the list.
Never be afraid to ask your doctor and pharmacist for more information about a drug or to discuss your concerns with them.
Follow your doctor and pharmacist's instructions on taking and storing your medication. If you don�t use it as directed (whether accidentally or not), let them know right away.
Read the labels and enclosed instructions for non-prescription medicines, as well. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions. Certain medications are only for adults or older children. Pregnant women should always consult with their pharmacist or doctor before taking any medication to ensure it won't affect their unborn child.
Don't assume a symptom is a natural side effect of a drug. If you're feeling unwell, call your doctor.
Never take a drug prescribed for someone else or a drug that's past its expiry date.
In rare cases, some people experience an allergic reaction to a medication. If you or a loved one has trouble breathing or swallowing, has a seizure, or displays any other unusual change, call 911.
Further Resources
Contact the Alberta College of Pharmacists at pharmacists.ab.ca/contact/default.aspx or 1-877-227-3838.
