by Rebecca Webb, PharmD  Pharmacy Clinical Services Manager, K-VA-T Food Stores

October is talk about your medicine month.  Medications are an important aspect for most individuals.  Taking medications may be a part of your everyday routine.  Your comprehensive drug therapy may include prescriptions from your pharmacy, over-the-counter (OTC) products, dietary supplements, and even sample medications from your doctor.  Taking these medications safely and effectively is imperative for your health.   

 

This month focus on communication with your Food City Pharmacists.  They are your readily available medication experts.  Taking a few moments to talk with them will go a long way.  Our pharmacists can help you stay informed by answering questions about your medications.  Questions to ask your pharmacists concerning each medication may include:

• What is the name of my medication? Are there any other names for this medication?

• What is this medication used for?

• How does this medication work?

• When should I take this medication?

• How should I take this medication?

• How many times a day should I take this medication?

• What should I do if I forget to take this medication?

• How long should I take this medication?

• When will this medication start working?

• What are potential side effects of this medication?

• Will this medication interact with other medications I take?

• Should I take this medication with food?

• Are there any foods or beverages I should avoid while taking this medication?

• Are there any activities I should avoid while taking this medication?

• Will this medication take the place of anything else I am taking?

• How should I store this medication?

 

Keep a complete list of all your medications.  This list should include the name of the medication, what the medication is used for, the dose of the medication, how often you take the medication, and who prescribed the medication.  In addition, this list should contain any of your medication allergies and associated reactions.  Remember to bring this list to all medical appointments and when you visit the pharmacy.  It is important to keep all your health care providers up-to-date on your medications.   

 

If you take multiple medications a day, a pill organizer may help you manage your drug therapy.  Pill organizers come in a variety of sizes and features.  This may be a solution if you have any adherence issues with your medications.  Talk to your Food City Pharmacists about which option is right for you.  

 

Always make sure you have your local Food City Pharmacy phone number available.  You may have questions that arise after you pick up your medications.  It is also important for the pharmacy to have your current contact information as well.  Make sure you keep your pharmacy updated.   

 

 

Your Food City Pharmacists are wonderful resources and valuable members of your health care team.  We appreciate your business and look forward to serving you and your family.