Prescription Information

Record and understand prescription information, and rely on the experts, pharmacists and doctors, for help.

When the doctor prescribes medication for you

Be sure to ask your doctor about all new prescriptions. Record and make sure you understand the name of the medication and instructions for use. Below are some additional safety tips for when you are receiving a new prescription.

• When you see your doctor and receive a new medication, ask your doctor to print the name of the new medication on the prescription slip. If you cannot read the prescription drug name, it’s possible that your pharmacist cannot read it either.

• It's important that you know your doctor's name, particularly if this is a new doctor for you. Ask your doctor to print his or her name or circle his or her name on the prescription sheet so that the pharmacist can read it.

• Ask your doctor for information about your new medication.

• Ask your doctor to explain more about your new medication, if you do not understand why you are taking a medication.
  

• Tell your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications you are taking and include over-the-counter, herbal, vitamin, and dietary supplements.
  

• Tell your doctor about any allergies you may have.

When the doctor prescribes medication for your child 

Take part in all decisions regarding your child's health. Ask questions about all medications prescribed for your child. Don't be shy – ask to have any questions or concerns answered or explained.

• Tell the physician if you are giving your child non-prescription medications, vitamins, herbals, or other dietary supplements. Take a complete list of all drugs and supplements you are giving to your child with you to your doctor's appointment.
  

• Tell your physician about any allergies your child may have now or had in the past.
  

• Make sure you can read the prescription before leaving the physician’s office. If you cannot, the pharmacist may not be able to either. Ask the doctor to print the name of the drug.
  

• Know the name of your child's doctor. Also, ask the doctor to print his or her name.