Ask for safest Rx drugs

When prescribed a new medication, ask your doctor whether it’s the least risky choice available, especially if the medicine is a pain reliever, sedative, antidepressant, or antianxiety drug. The Feb. 9, 2004 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine reported that in 1 out of every 12 doctor visits, in outpatient settings, patients age 65 and older received prescriptions for potentially dangerous drugs instead of medications with fewer adverse effects or drug interactions. For more information on drug safety, visit the Web site of the National Council on Patient Information and Education at www.talkaboutrx.org.

Consumer Reports Medical Guide has information about 900+ drugs and their effectiveness.