Many times, when we receive a medical prescription or buy an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine, questions come up about how to use it correctly, what the risks are, and what all that information on the package means.
Understanding medication is part of health literacy and can prevent mistakes, dangerous interactions, and even hospitalizations.
Medicines are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They can be:
• Prescription drugs (prescription medications): can only be used with a doctor’s prescription. Examples: antibiotics, high blood pressure medications, and medications for depression.
• OTC – Over the counter (nonprescription medications): available without a prescription, such as pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), antacids, cough syrups, and some supplements.
Important: even OTC medications can be harmful to our health if we use them the wrong way.
In this post, we will talk about prescription medications.
What is a “prescription medication” (Rx)?
• It is a medicine that requires a prescription from an authorized professional (e.g., doctor, nurse practitioner, physician assistant).
• The pharmacy that dispenses your medicine puts a label on the bottle with clear directions for use, safety warnings, and the pharmacy’s phone number. In many cases, you also receive handouts (and, when applicable, a Medication Guide) with risks, interactions, and what to do if you have side effects.
• Many medicines have a well-known brand name and a generic version. Generic medicines work the same way as brand-name ones and often cost less. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if a generic option is right for you.
Before you start: 8 important questions to ask your health professional.
Bring this list to your appointment or to the pharmacy and write down the answers:
- How should I take it?
- Dose
- Times of day
- With or without food
- For how long
2. What might happen as side effects that means I should contact health care right away?
3. Can it interact with my other medicines, vitamins, herbal teas, alcohol, or any drugs?
4. What should I do if I miss a dose?
5. What should I do if I take an extra dose by mistake?
6. Can I drive or operate machinery while taking it?
7. Do I need blood tests or follow-up? How often?
8. How can I lower costs?
- Choose a generic medication
- Buy a larger quantity
- Use discount cards
How to read the pharmacy label
Look for this information:
• Pharmacy name, address, and phone number
So you know where to ask questions or request refills if needed.
• Your name (patient name)
Check that the medicine is really for you.
• Prescription number (Rx #)
This number identifies your medicine at the pharmacy. Use it if you need more refills or when you call about your medication.
• Prescriber’s name
The name of the doctor or other health professional who prescribed the medicine.
• Medicine name (brand and/or generic) and dose (example: Losartan 50 mg)
• Clear directions
Tells exactly how much, how, and when to take it (example: “Take 1 tablet by mouth daily with food”).
• What the medicine is for
When shown, it appears right below or inside the directions (example: “For high blood pressure”).
• Total quantity
How many tablets or capsules are in the bottle (example: “Qty: 30 tablets”).
• Expiration date
The last date the medicine can be used safely.
• Safety warnings
Important information to avoid problems (example: “May cause drowsiness”, “Do not take with alcohol”).
Want an example?
| AAAA Pharmacy 123 Main St, Springfield, IL 62704 Phone: (555) 123-4567 Patient: John Doe Rx#: 1234567-89 Prescriber: John Smith, MD Losartan Potassium 50 mg tablet Take 1 tablet by mouth every day with food. (For high blood pressure) Qty: 30 tablets Exp: 06/2025 Refills: 0 ⚠️ May cause dizziness or drowsiness. ⚠️ Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine. |
Safe everyday use: the “5 rights” check 🛡️
Before you take any medicine, read the label on the bottle every time.
Not sure about something? Bring your bottle and ask the pharmacist—no question is too small! Do your check:
- Right medicine? (name)
- Right person? (your name)
- Right dose? (how many mg/how many tablets)
- Right time? (according to your plan)
- Right route? (by mouth? inhale? apply to the skin?)
Useful resources
- FDA: https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/cder-contact-information/ways-consumers-contact-fda-about-human-drugs
- MedlinePlus – medlineplus.gov → information in English and Spanish, in plain language.
- Poison Help Line: 1-800-222-1222 → emergency number for medication poisoning.
Stay informed. Stay safe. Health literacy matters!
Note: This information is for general knowledge and does not replace advice from your pharmacist or doctor. For specific or urgent concerns, seek a qualified professional.