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Medimate: Questions to ask your doctor and pharmacistQuestions to ask your doctor and pharmacist
Write down the things you need to ask before you see your doctor or pharmacist. Take the list with you on your next visit. Make a longer appointment with your doctor or visit the pharmacist during quieter hours to get the information you need.
Ask what the medicine is for
- Why am I using this medicine?
- When will I start to see changes in my health?
Ask how to use the medicine
- What times of the day should I take it?
- What should I do if I forget to take a dose?
Ask when to stop using any of your medicines
- Do I have to finish all of the medicine, or just use it until I feel better, or keep using it for a long time?
- When I start using a new medicine, should I stop using any of the others?
Ask about special instructions
- For instance, do I take my medicine before or after meals?
- If I have to use a special device (e.g. puffer), what is the correct way to use it?
Ask about side effects
- What side effects do I need to watch out for?
- What should I do if I get a side effect?
Dos and don’ts while using a medicine
- Are there any medicines I should not use at the same time as this medicine?
- Can I drink alcohol when using this medicine?
- Can I drive while taking this medicine?
- Do I need monitoring or testing? For example, do I need to measure my blood glucose?
- How often do I need to have my medicines reviewed?
- How should I store this medicine?
Find out more:
- Why you need to get to know your medicines
- Medicines don't just come on prescription
- You may need more than medicine
- Be an active partner in using your medicines
- Talk openly with your doctor and pharmacist
- Find out about medicine side effects
- Use consumer medicine information (CMI) leaflets
- Learn about generic medicines
- What to do if you regularly use several medicines
- Keep an up-to-date Medicines List
- Information on medicines and health
You can download a full copy of Medimate or order a free copy.
Date published: 2009-09-23 00:00:00
Reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the date of creation. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from a qualified health professional. Health professionals should rely on their own expertise and enquiries when providing medical advice or treatment. Where permitted by law, NPS disclaims all liability (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or injury resulting from reliance on or use of this information. Read our full disclaimer.
References to brands should not be taken as an endorsement by NPS.
