January 2008
Talk to your doctor about medications
Illustration by Jing and Mike Co.
Studies show that doctors and patients often don't communicate well about prescriptions. Here's how to improve the conversation:
- List your drugs. Itemize what you are taking, or have taken over the past year, and mention any adverse reactions.
- Ask about options. Don't be shy about asking why your doctor is prescribing a particular drug over others. There should be a clear reason. And
find out whether the recommended drug is approved for use for your condition or is being prescribed "off-label." Off-label
uses are often beneficial but also might pose a higher risk of problems.
- Be wary of free samples. They come from drug companies and are usually widely available for only newer brand-name drugs, which might not be the best
choices for you.
- Raise cost concerns. Studies show that doctors are often unaware of drug costs and don't ask patients whether cost is an issue. Ask whether a
less expensive generic drug would do just as well. Lowering costs by splitting pills or getting them by mail order might also
be an option. And many brand-name drugs are available free of cost to low-income people without insurance. Your doctor or
the office staff can help you find out whether you are eligible for a drug-assistance program.
- Double-check dosing. Be sure you know how often you should take the drug, whether you should take it with food, and what to do if you miss a dose.
Ask whether a lower dose is an option.
- Don't ignore side effects. With any new prescription, ask about common side effects. Be assertive if you are having uncomfortable symptoms; studies show many doctors dismiss such complaints. Ask whether there's another drug for the condition that you might be able to tolerate better.
