The list should include name, use, dosage, and how often you really take every pill, tablet, etc. Make sure your physician sees your list with each visit. Have it ready to save valuable time particularly during the for-profit managed care eight minute office visit. Your physician should likewise keep a copy of your medication list. Try to minimize the number of pharmacies used and keep your pharmacist up to date.
Most pharmacists have a computer program which can check for drug interactions.
Ask him or her to check every time you get a new prescription. However, if you use several pharmacies the problem is that these computers presently do not connect to other chains or even within their own network. Avoid overuse of alcohol. The good news is that Americans are living longer and better than ever before. By following these common sense rules the patient, family, physician, and pharmacist will benefit.