When to Talk to Your Pharmacist

Your pharmacist is one of your most accessible healthcare resources—and they're experts in medications. Knowing when to consult them can improve your health and safety.

Times to Definitely Talk to Your Pharmacist

Starting a New Medication

Ask about:

• What the medication is for
• How and when to take it
• Common side effects to expect
• Interactions with your other medications
• Foods or activities to avoid

Experiencing Side Effects

Your pharmacist can help you:

• Determine if it's a known side effect
• Decide if you should continue taking it
• Suggest ways to manage side effects
• Know when to contact your doctor

Before Starting OTC Medications

Even over-the-counter drugs can:

• Interact with your prescriptions
• Be unsafe with your conditions
• Affect how your medications work

Always ask before adding anything new.

When Medications Look Different

If your refill looks different:

• Different color, shape, or size
• Different manufacturer
• Different packaging

Your pharmacist can verify it's correct.

Managing Multiple Medications

Get help with:

• Creating a medication schedule
• Identifying potential interactions
• Simplifying your regimen
• Using pill organizers correctly

Having Trouble Affording Medications

Pharmacists can suggest:

• Generic alternatives
• Patient assistance programs
• Manufacturer coupons
• Different pharmacies with better prices

Before Travel

Discuss:

• Time zone changes and dosing
• Traveling with medications
• Prescriptions for controlled substances
• Vaccinations needed

Questions to Ask Your Pharmacist

1. "Are there any interactions between my medications?"
2. "Is there a generic version available?"
3. "What should I do if I miss a dose?"
4. "Can I cut this pill in half?"
5. "Should I take this with food?"
6. "How should I store this medication?"
7. "Are there side effects I should watch for?"

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

Before You Go

• Bring your complete medication list
• Write down your questions
• Know your allergies and conditions

During Your Visit

• Ask questions—no question is too simple
• Take notes or ask for written information
• Confirm you understand everything

After Your Visit

• Follow the instructions given
• Call back if new questions arise
• Report any problems

Using Pharmacy Services

Many pharmacies offer:

• Medication therapy management
• Vaccinations
• Health screenings
• Medication synchronization
• Delivery services
• Automatic refills

When to Call Instead of Visit

You can often call your pharmacy for:

• Simple questions
• Refill requests
• Interaction checks
• Side effect guidance

Remember

Your pharmacist is:

• Highly trained in medications
• Easily accessible without appointments
• A free resource for medication questions
• An important part of your healthcare team

Don't hesitate to ask them anything about your medications.