How to Get the Most From Your Medicine What do I need to know? Medicines can help you feel better. But if medicines are taken incorrectly, they can actually make you feel worse. To use prescription medicines and medicines you can buy over-the-counter (without a prescription) correctly, follow the guidelines below. What questions should I ask my doctor about my medicines? If there is something you don't understand about a medicine you're taking, ask your doctor. If you still don't understand, ask your doctor to explain things more clearly. If you are taking more than one medicine, be sure to ask how the medicines will work together in your body. Sometimes medicines cause problems when they are taken together (called a drug interaction). Below is a list of questions you can ask your doctor to learn how to use each medicine correctly and safely: What does the medicine do? When and how should I take the medicine? What side effects (reactions your body may have to the medicine) could I have? Will the medicine react to any other medicines, foods or drinks? Should I avoid any activities while I'm taking the medicine? What should I do if I forget to take the medicine? How will I know whether the medicine is working? Things to know about each medicine you take Name (generic name and brand name) Reason for taking it How much to take and how often to take it Possible side effects and what to do if you have