6 Topics Your Pharmacist Can Help You With
October 3, 2024
When you pick up medication from your pharmacy, you are most likely asked, “Do you have any questions for the pharmacist?,” but do you know what questions you could ask? Pharmacists are your go-to experts on medication, and they are very knowledgeable about how medications work, what they treat, and how they interact with other products. Pharmacists are often the most accessible health care providers on your care team, and they can help you with many health concerns and topics without having to wait for a doctor’s appointment.
1. Managing your medications
One of the best topics to discuss with your pharmacist is, obviously, your medication, but did you know your pharmacist can help you create a plan to manage your meds? If you’re struggling to maintain a consistent schedule, keep things organized, or avoid missed doses, your pharmacist can work with you to create a personalized plan for your health needs.
2. Use opioids safely
Even if you’re using opioids exactly as your doctor prescribed, dangerous accidents can happen. Your pharmacist can educate you on how to take your medication, including discussing the correct dosage, frequency, and how to avoid an accident that could lead to an overdose. They also explain potential side effects, drug interactions, and the dangers of sharing opioid medications with others. Pharmacists can work with your health care provider to adjust your opioid dose to avoid potential dependence. They will closely monitor you for signs of dependence or misuse, and they will discuss proper disposal of your opioid medication with you. It’s always a good idea to keep naloxone on hand if you are regularly taking opioids, and your pharmacist can train you and your family members or caretakers on how to use it if necessary.
3. Find over-the-counter medication and supplements
Along with prescription-only drugs, pharmacists are trained on the chemistry and dosage of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and supplements. If you are curious about OTC medicines or supplements, ask your pharmacist how they might help you meet your health goals. Your pharmacists can also review your medications to ensure that any OTC drugs or supplements are safe to use with your prescriptions and prevent any adverse interactions.
4. Chronic disease management
If you have a chronic disease like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or something else that affects your health long term, pharmacists can help you make a plan to manage your treatment. They can advise you on medications to help your condition, recommend lifestyle changes, and help you access care. Pharmacists work as part of your health care team to better patient outcomes, making sure you don’t run into further health complications and improve your quality of life.
5. Save money on medication
Pharmacists might be able to share options to help you save money on medication. They can recommend generic versions of drugs or biosimilars, find less expensive medications that have the same effects, and share information about discount cards or coupons.
6. Get vaccinated
Don’t wait for a doctor’s appointment to get a vaccine! Most people know that they can get flu and COVID-19 shots at pharmacies, but did you know that you can schedule other vaccines? Pharmacies offer all kinds of vaccines, including RSV, Tdap, HPV, and more. Scheduling your vaccinations at your local pharmacy is often convenient to your schedule, with some even offering walk-in options. Most pharmacies offer online scheduling to make the process even easier.
Pharmacists are there to work with you through every stage of your health journey. Explore the Safe Pharmacy website to learn more about all aspects of safe medication practices. Look to your local pharmacy for solutions to the above topics and more!