Questions for your Pharmacist
by Ron Romano, Clinical Pharmacist, ProAct Inc.

Understanding your medical conditions and medications can be very challenging. Your health is very important to us, so use the expertise of your healthcare providers to help you live a longer, happier, and healthier life. To help you better understand your conditions and the medications used in their treatment, ask your doctor or pharmacist the following questions.

What are the treatment options for my condition?
There is usually more than one option for treating a particular condition. In some cases, prescription medication may not be required for less severe or self-limiting conditions. Your physician should discuss with you the options available.

If I require a medication, which one is best for me? Is there a generic drug that will accomplish the same goal?
As stated above, there is usually more than one option available to treat a particular condition. By talking to your physician, you can determine what may be the best course of treatment for you. In many instances a generic medication may be available for you to take. Generic drugs are required to pass the same tests that the more expensive, brand name medications must undergo. Therefore, generic medications offer a high quality, cost-effective way to help you manage your particular condition. Check with your physician or pharmacist to see what generic medications may be appropriate for your condition.

How long do I have to take this medication for?
Depending on your particular condition, you may need to take medication either short or long-term. Some medications must be taken every day, while others may be used on an “as needed” basis. Your physician should explain to you the nature of the illness which will dictate how you should take your medication. Your physician and pharmacist will be able to answer any questions that you may have on the proper use of your medication.

How long will the medication take to work?
Although many medications begin to work soon after the first dose, there are medications which require longer to exert their effects. For instance, anti-depressants usually require anywhere from 2-8 weeks to reach their maximum effect. Antibiotics will typically take at least a couple days before individuals begin to feel better, and should always be continued for the full course of treatment. Be sure to speak to your physician or pharmacist about how long before you can expect to see results from your medication.

Are there any side effects, drug or food interactions that I should be aware of?
All medications have the possibility of causing side effects. Some side effects are mild and may only last a short time, while others can be more severe, lasting for longer periods of time. Medications can interact with other medications (both prescription and over-the-counter), certain foods, and herbal or vitamin supplements. Drug/drug and drug/food interactions can be complex, and therefore it is important to provide an up-to-date listing of all medications you take to your health care professional. This will allow for selection of the best course of treatment with the lowest potential for side effects.

Does your prescription plan have a Preferred Drug List or Formulary?
If so, be sure to bring it to your physician at each visit. You may even want to leave a copy of this list to be put into your chart and provide updated copies when available. Physicians typically see many patients who have different health plans and drug formularies. By providing this list, your physician will have access to finding a treatment that will best fit your needs.

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