new medicines: questions to ask the doctor
overview
ask the following questions if your doctor recommends a new medicine for your health condition.
general questions
brand name (trade name): | generic name (chemical name): |
|---|---|
what will the medicine do (for example, decrease blood pressure)? |
why do i need this medicine? |
are there any other medicine or treatment options? |
is medicine covered by my provincial health plan? |
is a generic form of the medicine available and appropriate for me? |
can i start with a prescription for a few days to make sure the medicine agrees with me? |
questions about taking the medicine
how is the medicine taken (for example, orally [by mouth] or through a skin patch)? what amount do i take each time (dose)? how often should it be taken (for example, 3 times a day)? when? should i take it with or without food? |
what should i avoid while taking it (for example, certain foods, activities, other medicines, or alcohol)? |
will it interact with other medicines i am currently taking or other medical conditions? yes___ no __ if yes, what might occur? |
what are the common side effects (those that do not usually cause problems)? |
what side effects should i report if i experience them? |
what do i do if i miss a dose? |
how long will i need to take this medicine (days, weeks, months)? |
how will i know that the medicine is helping? |
what is the next step if this medicine doesn't work? |
reminders
- be sure you understand your doctor's instructions.
- state any concerns you have about taking the medicine. for example, ask if "4 doses daily" means taking a dose every 6 hours around the clock or just during regular waking hours.
credits
current as of: september 25, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
current as of: september 25, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
all healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
