Get Better Care - Guide to Medications

Get Better Care Louisiana Health Finder helps you manage your medications and get the most benefit from your prescriptions with this Guide to Medications.

 

Monitor your medications

Keep a list of all the medications that you take as well as medicines you cannot take due to allergic reactions. Have this list ready to share with your doctor or pharmacist. Remember, medications include prescribed drugs, nonprescription medicines, herbal supplements, home remedies, and medical foods. Louisiana Health Finder provides you with a form to keep track of this information.

Talk with your doctor

Good communication with your physician about your medications is a key to improved health.

  • Explain how you take your medicine. If you are taking medication in a way that is different from what the doctor has told you or from what is indicated on the packaging, the doctor needs to know.
  • Find cheaper alternatives. Your doctor may be able to tell you if there is a less expensive generic drug available for your condition.

Consult your pharmacist

There are some basic measures you can take so that your pharmacist can provide you with the help you need.

  • Consider buying medications at one location. This allows the pharmacist to keep track of the medications you are taking so that you can avoid harmful drug interactions.
  • Provide your list of medications. If you decide to shop at more than one pharmacy, tell the pharmacist all the drugs you are taking, including the prescription strengths and dosage amounts
  • Learn what to avoid. Ask the pharmacist if you should stay away from certain foods, beverages, medicines, or activities while you are taking the drug.

Use medications safely

Take control of your health by administering your medications in the most effective way.

  • Ask questions if you do not understand something. There is a chance that the medication or instructions you received from a provider are incorrect. Be alert to unexpected changes such as a medication refill that has a different strength or appearance from your original prescription.
  • Create a routine. Taking your medications in a similar way each day can keep you from missing doses or taking more than you need.
  • Get the help of a friend or relative. If you are too ill to follow these guidelines, ask for help from someone you trust.

Find more information on medications

These websites provide additional details about drugs you may be taking.