How Much Do You Know About Prescriptions?
Prescription medicines can work wonders—when they are taken as they should be. But what happens when you miss a dose? Or when you want to take an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine along with your prescription? See if you know the answers to these and other questions by taking this quiz.
1. How are prescription medicines different from over-the-counter medicines?
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Prescription medicines and OTC medicines should both be treated with respect. Take both types as directed.
2. Which government agency decides if a medicine is prescription or nonprescription?
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The FDA oversees both prescription and OTC medicines, both brand-named products and generic forms.
3. Before taking a prescription medicine, you should know which of the following?
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You should also understand why you need to take the medicine and how long you will need to use it. And you should know if you need to stay away from certain foods, drinks, or other medicines. Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have questions about your medicines.
4. What should you do if you miss a dose of a prescription medicine?
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Different medicines call for different responses.
5. How much liquid should you take with a pill or tablet?
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Drinking a full glass of water after swallowing a pill lowers the risk of damaging your stomach or esophagus.
6. Which of these things affects how a prescription medicine acts in your body?
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Additional factors include stress, diet, and other health conditions you may have.
7. Prescription medicines can interact with which of these?
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Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about possible interactions before taking any of these substances with a prescription medicine.
8. How does aging affect the way your body reacts to medicines?
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At each healthcare provider's appointment, bring a list of all medicines you take so that your provider can double-check the types and dosages.
9. What should you do if you have unpleasant side effects while taking a prescription medicine?
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If you are having a serious allergic reaction to a medicine, such as trouble breathing, call 911 or go to an emergency room.
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