Your prescription…It's worth the wait!

"Sometimes when I bring in my prescription to be filled, it takes so long…..What is my pharmacist doing with it?"

Although it might seem that all there is to filling a prescription is to count pills, print a label and stick it on the container, a lot of work goes on behind the scenes before your prescription is ready.

Your pharmacist ensures your MEDICATION is best FOR YOU

• Your pharmacist checks the medication, the dose and instructions your physician has written to make sure they are right for you.
   
• Your new prescription is then checked against the other medications you are taking.
   
• Your pharmacist checks for possible problems, such as allergies or drug interactions.
   
• Your pharmacist monitors how your medications are working and whether you are experiencing any problems.

If there are any concerns, your pharmacist will work with you and your doctor to correct and prevent any problems.

Your pharmacist keeps a record of your drug therapy

Your drug profile is a computerized list of all the prescriptions you have filled at that pharmacy. When you hand over a prescription, your pharmacist must make sure the information is complete and correct. He / she needs to know of any allergies or other health problems you have. Tell your pharmacist about any other prescription or non-prescription medications or supplements that you are taking and any concerns or problems you might have. The records your pharmacist keeps are as confidential as your doctor's files. It is a good idea to have all your prescriptions filled at one pharmacy. This way, your pharmacist will have a complete profile to accurately monitor your entire drug therapy.

Your pharmacist advises you about your medication

Once your prescription is filled and checked, your pharmacist will explain:

• Why the drug is being used
   
• How and When to take it
   
• How to store it
   
• What to do if you experience side effects.

Take the time to read any written information you are given.

If you don't understand what your pharmacist is saying, ask questions until you do - never go away confused or uncertain.

Your pharmacist can help you choose a non-prescription medication

If you are treating yourself for a common problem, such as stomach problems, pain or a cold, ask your pharmacist what the best product is for your symptoms. Always tell your pharmacist if you are taking any non-prescription medications. Harmful interactions may occur between these and your prescription drugs. Your pharmacist can also give you advice on ways to manage your symptoms without medications and what to do if you don't get better. Pharmacists are a good source of information on other questions you may have about your health and how to live a healthy lifestyle.

Your pharmacist is a medication expert

Physicians, nurses and other health care professionals rely on your pharmacist for drug information and advice. Pharmacists stay informed of the thousands of drugs available in Trinidad & Tobago and the many new drugs that come on the market each year.

If you think of a question later, call your pharmacist

You can always contact your pharmacist or drop in to get more information. Your pharmacist's goal is to work with you to improve your health by making sure your drug therapy is safe and works for you.