What goes on behind the pharmacy counter can seem pretty mysterious to the average person, but many important things take place there. Listed here are some common questions and answers related to the process of having a prescription filled.
Pharmacists are medication experts-they do much more than count tablets and pour liquids.
For each prescription dispensed, your pharmacist must check to see that the information provided by the prescribing physician is complete, that the new medication will not interact with other medications that you are taking, that the medication and dosage are appropriate for your health condition, and that you understand the proper way to store and take the medication. Once a prescription is written, it is only effective for one year. Some types of prescriptions are only effective for a short time after they are written, like narcotic medications. Once this period of time is up, the pharmacist must ask for your doctor's approval before refilling your medication. Many times your doctor may want you to make an appointment for a check-up before authorizing a refill for your medication.