The U Pharmacopeia (USP) is offerin...

The U Pharmacopeia (USP) is offering a clear consumer brochure on how to safely use prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. "Think It Through: A Guide to Managing the Benefits and Risks of Medicines" is available from calling 888-878-8256 (ask for department 73) and online at www.usp.org/thinkitthrough. The eight-page pamphlet offers information on the following five degrees in making informed decisions and safely using medications:

1 Talk with your physician, pharmacist, or other health care professional. withhold an up-to-date list of medicines and dietary counterparts you use, and always ask questions about any affairs or thoughts you may have.

2 Know your medicines, the two prescription and OTC. Be aware of when, to what degree and how long to use them, what to do if you miss a dose, and whether or not there are any side effects

3 Read the label and tread on the heels of directions. Always double-check that you have the right medicine, and not at all combine medicines in the same bottle Make permanent you understand the directions; if you have any questions or relate tos ask.

4 Avoid interactions. Before starting any just discovered medicine or dietary supplement, ask if there are possible interactions with harvests you are currently using. Whenever possible, use the same pharmacy for all your medication needs

5 Monitor your medicine's tenors and the effects of other medications or complements you use. Pay attention to to what degree you are feeling; write down the changes with equal reason that you can remember to relate your physician or pharmacist.

COPYRIGHT 2003 American Academy of Family Physicians

COPYRIGHT 2003 Gale Group