Understanding Your Prescription Labels
Every prescription label contains critical information about your medication. Understanding each section helps ensure you take medications safely and effectively.
Key Sections of a Prescription Label
1. Patient Name
Always verify this is YOUR prescription. Taking someone else's medication is dangerous and illegal.
2. Medication Name
You'll see both:
- Brand name (e.g., Lipitor)
- Generic name (e.g., atorvastatin)
Both refer to the same medication.
3. Strength and Dosage
This tells you how much of the active ingredient is in each pill. For example:
- "10 mg" means 10 milligrams per tablet
- Never adjust your dosage without consulting your doctor
4. Directions for Use
Critical instructions like:
- "Take one tablet by mouth daily"
- "Take with food"
- "Take at bedtime"
Follow these exactly as written.
5. Quantity and Refills
Shows:
- How many pills are in this bottle
- How many refills remain
6. Prescriber Information
Your doctor's name and contact information. Call them with questions about why you're taking this medication.
7. Pharmacy Information
Your pharmacy's contact details. Call them for questions about:
- How to take the medication
- Potential side effects
- Drug interactions
8. Expiration Date
Never take medication past its expiration date. Expired medications may be:
- Less effective
- Potentially harmful
9. Warning Labels
The colored stickers with important warnings:
- "May cause drowsiness"
- "Take with food"
- "Avoid alcohol"
- "Do not crush"
These warnings are crucial for your safety.
What to Do If Something Seems Wrong
If anything on your label seems incorrect:
- Don't take the medication
- Call your pharmacy immediately
- Verify with your doctor if needed
Keep a Medication List
Maintain an updated list of all your medications including:
- Medication names
- Dosages
- What each is for
- When you take them
Share this list with all your healthcare providers.