The questions you should be asking your pharmacist (but aren’t)

By Susan Peppers, RPh
VP, Pharmacy Practice
Express Scripts^® Pharmacy

Whether we’re searching Google, asking Alexa, or posting on multiple social media channels, we love to ask questions. Except when it comes to our medication.

A J.D. Power study showed that only 10% of people talk to a pharmacist when ordering or getting their medications.¹

Whether you’re embarrassed, crunched for time, or just don’t know what you should be asking, you’re missing out on an opportunity. Pharmacists play an important role in helping you feel your best and stay healthy.

That’s why I turned to the pharmacists at Express Scripts^® Pharmacy to share the top six questions patients should be asking their pharmacists but aren’t.

1. Could this medication interact with my vitamins and supplements?

Non-prescription medications and supplements may interfere with your prescriptions or cause unnecessary side effects. Talk to a pharmacist about all the medications you take and any time you’re prescribed a new one.

2. I’m taking multiple medications. What do I need to know?

If you’re taking more than one medication and there’s a change to your medication regimen, check with a pharmacist to see if there any potential interactions between medications, overlapping medications, or gaps in care.

3. Could this prescription make me unsteady on my feet?

Some medications can make you dizzy or drowsy. It’s important to know this ahead of time so you can take your medication in a safe setting. A pharmacist can provide home safety tips to avoid an accident.

4. I sometimes forget to take my medications. What’s a reminder that works?

It’s important to take your medications regularly, as prescribed, to get the full benefits and avoid complications. If you’re having trouble remembering to take your medications, a pharmacist can suggest certain reminder apps to help. They can also help you manage any side effects you may be having and suggest alternative medications with a simpler schedule, if that’s an option. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider about any alternative medications.

5. What should I do if I forget to take my medication?

Always check with your healthcare provider if this happens. You can also talk to your pharmacist. If you forget to take a dose at the scheduled time, your pharmacist can help you get back on track so that you get the full benefits of your medication.

6. Is there a more affordable option for my prescription?

If you’re having trouble affording your medication, your pharmacist can recommend more affordable options, such as generics. If it’s a medication you take on a regular basis, you can help keep costs down by using a home delivery pharmacy and having your doctor prescribe a 90-day supply. Read more about simple ways to save money on prescriptions.

Conclusion

When it comes to taking care of your whole health, pharmacists play a major role in the equation. Communicating with your pharmacist regularly can help reduce the chance of complications related to your medications.

Express Scripts^® Pharmacy makes it easy to find answers to your questions with 24/7 access to specially trained pharmacists. Learn more about how we’re creating a simpler, better, and more personal pharmacy experience.

1 PR Newswire: J.D. Power Reports: Pharmacists and Staff Play Increasingly Important Roles in Pharmacy Customer Satisfaction (September 25, 2014): prnewswire.com.