It is not easy being a patient. Most patients are nervous and anxious when visiting a doctor and often forget to ask vital questions that will impact their health. Here are six questions that you should ask your physician when he\she prescribes a new medication:
1. What does this medication do? What is the purpose of the medication?
2. How will I know if the medication is working? Can you tell me about how long I will have to wait before the medication begins to work?
3. What are the side effects of this medication? What should I do if I experience these side effects? How common are these side effects?
4. Why is this medication good or effective for my condition?
5. Are there any other non-medication alternatives that I could try that may do the same as the medication?
6. What are the consequences of not taking this medication?
7. Is this a new drug? Would a less expensive generic drug work just as well?
By asking these questions, you will demonstrate to your doctor that you are actively involved in your medical care. You now become a part of the “team” and there is no one who should be more interested in your care than you.
Tags: compliance, doctor-patient relations, drugs, medications, prescriptions
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