How to Make Smart Medication Choices
How to Make Smart Medication Choices
Before your appointment, write down all the medications you use now. Bring the list with you.
"Be sure to include any supplements you take, too," Waite says. This includes vitamins, minerals, and herbal products. The information can help you avoid harmful interactions.
"For example, ginkgo biloba can cause bleeding," she says, "so your doctor would want to know that you're taking it before adding a blood thinner that can increase your risk of bleeding, too."
Your relationship with your doctor can make a big difference in how well your treatment plan works. Don't stop taking a drug without discussing it with him first.
"There are solutions to nearly every issue you might face while taking a medication," Waite says. "You just need to let your doctor know about them so you can solve it together."
How to Make Smart Medication Choices
Talk About Medications You're Taking
Before your appointment, write down all the medications you use now. Bring the list with you.
"Be sure to include any supplements you take, too," Waite says. This includes vitamins, minerals, and herbal products. The information can help you avoid harmful interactions.
"For example, ginkgo biloba can cause bleeding," she says, "so your doctor would want to know that you're taking it before adding a blood thinner that can increase your risk of bleeding, too."
Your relationship with your doctor can make a big difference in how well your treatment plan works. Don't stop taking a drug without discussing it with him first.
"There are solutions to nearly every issue you might face while taking a medication," Waite says. "You just need to let your doctor know about them so you can solve it together."
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