Medication Lists: Important for Prescribers and Patients

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Lists are a part of our daily lives, from to-do lists to grocery lists.  But what about maintaining an active medication list?

Having a personal medication list readily available is vital in the case of an emergency.  The FDA recommends people taking medication:

• Keep the list of your medications with you at all times and let a loved one know.
• Keep a list of your medications and dietary supplements with you at all times, such as in your wallet or purse, and keep a copy in your home.
• Share a copy of the medication list with a family member or friend, or let them know where you keep the list. In an emergency, that person will be able to inform your doctors of the medications and dietary supplements you use.

Make a medication list today and bring it with you to your next doctor’s appointment.  Knowing your medication regimen will allow physicians that e-Prescribe to check for drug and drug-allergy interactions as well as adverse drug reactions.  Get more tips from the FDA at http://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm096403.htm.