Organize your pills

Some people find it helpful to use a pill organizer, especially if taking several different kinds of pills at different times of the day. A quick glance at an organizer will tell you if you have remembered to take your medicines for that day. Organizers are available at most drug stores and are available without a prescription.

Keep a Medication Record

Write your name and any allergies at the top. Then list all the medicines and supplements you are currently taking. Include the name of the medicine- both the generic and brand names, times you are to take it and the purpose. Ask your practitioner how long you will need to take the medicine (see sample list below.) Click here to download a Medication Record form. Keep your Medication Record updated and keep it with you. Take it to every doctor appointment. It could save your life!

Avoid potentially harmful drug interactions

• Let all of your prescribing practitioners and pharmacists know about every medicine you are taking including over-the counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, herbals and birth control pills.
• If possible, purchase all of your medicines from one pharmacy.
• Don’t share medicines with friends or family.
• Heed warning labels on bottles.
• Discard outdated medicines.
• Store medicines in their original containers, in a cool, dry place and out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not mix different pills in one bottle.
• Find out what you should do if you develop side
effects..

Double check your medicines when...

• Picking up a new or refilled prescription. Are the pills a different color or shape? A generic pill may look very different from a brand-name pill. Check the milligram ("mg.") dose. Is it the same as the one you were taking before? Are you to take the same number of pills each day? If you have any ques tions, call your pharmacist or doctor.
• In a hospital or nursing home. First, make sure the nurse checks your ID bracelet. If you don’t recognize the pills, ASK QUESTIONS. You should understand what medicines have been prescribed for you and why you are taking them. If not, ask to speak with your doctor.  
• At time of hospital discharge or after a visit with your healthcare practitioner. Before leaving, make sure you have written instructions on how to take your medicines.

If you have any concerns, call your pharmacist.