Questions to Ask Health Care Provider

• What is the medication for and how is it going to help me?

• How and when should I use the medication?

• How much do I use?

• How long should I use it?

• Can I stop using the medication or use less if I feel better?

• What should I do if I forget to take the medication or I use too much?

• Will the medication take the place of anything else I am using?

• When will the medication start working?

• How should I expect to feel?

• Are there any special directions for using the medication?

• Should I avoid any other medications, supplements, drinks, foods, activities, or other things while on this medication?

• Is there anything I should watch for, like allergic reactions or side effects?

• What do I do if I get any side effects?

• Will I need any tests to check the medication's effects (blood tests, x-rays, other)? When will I need those?

• Do I need to keep this medication in the refrigerator?

• Is there patient information for this medication?

Updated May 2011
Clinical Advisory Board Sponsor: Rose Mary Pries, PhD
Clinical Subject Matter Experts: Maureen Layden, MD, MPH; Eric Spahn, PharmD
Patient Education Subject Matter Experts: Kathy Horvath, PhD