than one) has a list of all of the medicines you're taking Do ask your doctor to help you make a schedule (if you are taking more than one medicine) so you know what medicines to take at what times of the day. Do consider using one pharmacy for all your prescriptions. The pharmacist can help you keep track of what you're taking. Do make sure everyone you live with knows what medicine you're taking and when you're supposed to take it. What's the difference between generic and brand name medicines? Just like foods, some medicines come in both brand names and generics. Generic medicines are generally cheaper. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if a generic form of your prescription medicine will work for you. Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines also come in generics. Compare the lists of ingredients. If the generic has the same ingredients as the brand name, you may want to consider using it. But be careful: The generic may contain different amounts of certain medicines. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about which medicine to choose. Tips for choosing OTC medicines If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Although it can seem overwhelming, take the time to look at all the choices. Read the label carefully, and note what symptoms the medicine will treat. Look for a medicine that will treat only the symptoms you have. For example, if you have only a runny nose, don't pick a medicine that also treats coughs