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Quick Tips: Taking Medicines Wisely

Table of Contents


Getting Started

Medicines can help you manage your health, but only if you take them correctly. If you're having problems taking your medicine as prescribed, try thinking about why you're having trouble. You might not be sure why your medicine is important or if it is working. Maybe you just can't remember to take your medicine every day. Or perhaps you're having a hard time paying for medicines or dealing with side effects. If so, these tips might help.

When to call your doctor

If you're having a problem with your medicine, don't just stop taking it. Keep in mind that your medicines can help you avoid complications that could happen because of your health problem. Talk to your doctor first if:

You're having a problem with side effects.
You may be able to take a different medicine. Or your doctor may have ideas about how to reduce side effects. If an upset stomach is the problem, for example, ask if you can take the medicine with food.
You feel that your medicine isn't working.
Keep in mind that some medicines take time to work.
Your medicine is too hard to use.
Ask your doctor about ways to make taking it easier. For example, if you use an inhaler, ask your doctor to show you how to use it. If you need to give yourself shots, ask your doctor for tips on how to make it easier.

Credits for Quick Tips: Taking Medicines Wisely

Current as of: September 25, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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