Use Medicines Safely

Take these steps to prevent problems and mistakes with your medicines.

Talk to your doctor.

Before you use any new prescription medicines, tell your doctor:

• About other medicines you use — both prescription and OTC medicines
• About any vitamins, minerals, or herbs you use 
• If you're allergic to any medicines
• If you’ve had side effects after using any medicines
• If you're pregnant or breastfeeding — this is because some medicines may harm your baby
• If you have any questions or concerns about the new medicine

Be sure to keep taking prescription medicines until your doctor tells you it’s okay to stop — even if you’re feeling better. If you're worried the medicine is making you feel worse, tell your doctor. Keep in mind that sometimes you can get side effects from stopping your medicine.

Talk with your doctor about drug misuse.

If you think you may have a problem with either legal medicines or illegal drugs (like heroin or cocaine), tell your doctor. Your doctor needs to know what drugs you’re using before you start a new medicine — and treatment can help you stop misusing drugs. Learn more about getting help for drug misuse.

Follow the directions carefully.

Be sure to read the directions carefully when taking prescription or OTC medicines. Learn more about using OTC medicines safely.

If you notice unpleasant side effects after taking medicine, like feeling dizzy or having an upset stomach, call your doctor or nurse.

Ask questions to make sure you understand.

To use a medicine safely, you need to know:

• The name of the medicine
• Why you're using the medicine
• How to use the medicine the right way
• If there are any medicines you need to avoid while you’re taking this one
• What the side effects could be
• How to get rid of unused medicine safely

Ask your doctor or nurse questions to be sure you understand how to use your medicine. Take notes to help you remember the answers. You can even ask to record the instructions on your phone. Check out these questions to ask your doctor or nurse.

You can also ask a pharmacist if you forget how to use a medicine or you don’t understand the directions. Use these tips to talk with a pharmacist about your medicines.

Keep track of your medicines.

Follow these tips to help you keep track of your medicines:

• Use this resource to make a list of the medicines you use [PDF - 156 KB]. Write down how much you use and when you use each medicine — and make sure to include any dietary supplements (vitamins, minerals, or herbs) you take.
• Take the list with you whenever you go to a medical appointment. You may also want to make a copy to give to a family member or friend in case you have a medical emergency.
• Read and save any information that comes with your medicine.
• Keep your medicine in the box or bottle it came in so you have all the information from the label.
• Pay attention to the color and shape of your pills. If they look different when you get a refill, ask your pharmacist to double-check that you have the right medicine.

Put your medicines in a safe place.

Medicines that are stored correctly last longer and work better. Follow these tips:

• Check for storage instructions on the medicine label — for example, some medicines need to be stored in the refrigerator.
• Store medicines that don't have special storage instructions in a cool, dry place. Medicines can break down quickly in places that are damp and warm, like the kitchen or bathroom.
• Keep medicines away from children and pets. Using a locked box, cabinet, or closet is best. Get more tips for how to keep medicines away from children. 
• Get rid of expired (out-of-date) medicines and medicines you no longer use. Follow these instructions to get rid of old or extra medicines safely.

Call the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) right away if a child or someone else accidentally uses your medicine.