You and Your Medicine
by Dr. Roland Chiasson
VAC National Medical Officer
 At some point in your life, you may need to take medicine that is prescribed by a doctor or that you buy off the shelf at a drug store. Medicine can make you feel better if taken as directed, under the supervision of a doctor. However, mixing different kinds of medicine, missing doses, taking too much medicine, or not taking it as directed, can cause serious health problems.
Before you take any new medicine, you should always tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medicine you already may be taking. This might include:
- prescription drugs;
- over-the-counter products, such as ones you may take to help you sleep, clear a stuffy nose or "stay regular";
- vitamins; or
- any "natural" or "herbal" products you may be using.
It is always wise to know as much about your medicine as possible. Ask your doctor these questions the next time you need medicine:
- What is the name of the medicine?
- Why do I need to take it?
- How do I take it?
- Do I need to avoid alcohol or certain types of food?
- Does the medicine have any side effects?
- What do I do when I run out of the medicine?
- Where do I keep the medicine?
- Do I need to take all the medicine?
Other Helpful Tips
- Take your medicine where there is enough light for you see the medicine and read the instructions on how to take it.
- If possible, stand or sit while you take your medicine. It will reach your stomach faster which means it will begin to work faster.
- Some mouthwashes and cold and cough medicines contain alcohol. Avoid them if you can't drink alcohol with your medicine.
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