New Medicines: Questions to Ask the Doctor
Overview
Ask the following questions if your doctor recommends a new medicine for your health condition.
General questions
What is the name of the medicine?
|
Brand name (trade name):
|
Generic name (chemical name):
|
| |
|
|
What will the medicine do (for example, decrease blood pressure)?
|
|
Why do I need this medicine?
|
|
Are there any other medicine or treatment options?
|
|
How much does the medicine cost?
|
|
Is a generic form of the medicine available and appropriate for me?
|
|
Can I start with a prescription for a few days to make sure the medicine agrees with me?
|
Questions about taking the medicine
|
How is the medicine taken (for example, orally [by mouth] or through a skin patch)?
What amount do I take each time (dose)?
How often should it be taken (for example, 3 times a day)? When?
Should I take it with or without food?
|
|
What should I avoid while taking it (for example, certain foods, activities, other medicines, or alcohol)?
|
|
Will it interact with other medicines I am currently taking or other medical conditions? Yes___ No __ If yes, what might occur?
|
|
What are the common side effects (those that do not usually cause problems)?
|
|
What side effects should I report if I experience them?
|
|
What do I do if I miss a dose?
|
|
How long will I need to take this medicine (days, weeks, months)?
|
|
How will I know that the medicine is helping?
|
|
What is the next step if this medicine doesn't work?
|
Reminders
- Be sure you understand your doctor's instructions.
- State any concerns you have about taking the medicine. For example, ask if "4 doses daily" means taking a dose every 6 hours around the clock or just during regular waking hours.
Credits
Current as of:
September 25, 2023
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: September 25, 2023
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
