10 Questions to Ask About the Medicines You Take

Use the below list so you know what questions to ask about the medicines you take. This will help guide your conversations with your healthcare professional. Also, it will help make sure you are maximizing the benefits of your medicine and minimizing the risks.

  1. What’s the name of the medicine, and what is it for?
  2. How and when do I take it, and for how long?
  3. What side effects should I expect, and what should I do about them?
  4. Should I take this medicine on an empty stomach or with food?
  5. Should I avoid any activities, foods, drinks, alcohol or other medicines while taking this prescription?
  6. If it’s a once-a-day dose, is it best to take it in the morning or at night?
  7. Will this medicine work safely with my other medications, including other prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and other supplements?
  8. When should I expect the medicine to begin to work, and how will I know if it’s working?
  9. How should I store it?
  10. Is there any additional information I should know about this medicine?

Access a printable version of questions to ask about the medicines you take. You can take this to your pharmacy or to your next doctor’s appointment.


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