John's Pharmacy - Education

	Create a list of all of your medications and show it to each doctor and your pharmacist. The list should include the medication, strength, how often you take it and your doctor’s name that prescribed it. It should also include any non prescription medications and vitamins you are taking and if you drink alcohol, smoke or use other drugs. Ask us for a free Personal Medication List.
	Just because a medicine is “Over the Counter,” “Herbal,” or “Natural” does not mean that it is safe or not a drug. ALWAYS ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking any of these medications.
	Remind your doctor and pharmacist of any allergies you have each time you start a new medication.
	Look at your prescription before you leave the doctor’s office, if you cannot read it, ask for a new one. Many drugs have similar names and can be confusing to the pharmacy if the prescription is illegible.
	When you pick up your prescription, read the label to be sure it has your name and your medicine on the bottle
	Take your medicine as the doctor prescribed it. Do not take more or less and do not stop taking your medicine without first calling your doctor or pharmacist.
	If you have to go to the hospital be sure to take your list of medications with you.
	Do not purchase medications on the internet. Almost all internet pharmacies are not regulated by the government and you have no guarantee that you are actually getting the medication that you need.
	Know the 5 Rights of Medication Management. Right Drug - Right Patient - Right Dose - Right Route - Right Time
	Ask questions! Any time you are unsure about your medication call and ask your doctor or pharmacist; we are always willing to help you.