Prescription Drugs

What are they?

Prescription drugs are medications that require a doctor’s prescription to be dispensed. This means they are considered more powerful or potentially harmful than over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and their use should be supervised by a healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Why are they prescribed?

Prescription drugs are used to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including:

Types of prescription drugs:

There are many different types of prescription drugs, each with its own unique properties and uses. Some common categories include:

Important considerations when taking prescription drugs: Take them exactly as prescribed: This includes the dosage, frequency, and duration of treatment.
Inform your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking: This can help avoid potential drug interactions.
Tell your doctor about any allergies you have: This is important to avoid allergic reactions to the medication.
Report any side effects you experience: Some side effects may be serious and require medical attention.
Don’t share your prescription drugs with others: This can be dangerous and lead to misuse or addiction.
Store your medications safely: Keep them out of the reach of children and pets.
Dispose of expired or unused medications properly: Don’t flush them down the toilet or throw them in the trash.

Resources for information on prescription drugs:MedlinePlus: https://medlineplus.gov/druginformation.html
Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements
National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.nih.gov/about-nih/what-we-do/nih-almanac/national-institute-drug-abuse-nida
Food and Drug Administration (FDA): https://www.fda.gov/

It’s important to always consult with a healthcare professional if you have any questions or concerns about prescription drugs.