We are fortunate for the advances in western medicine. It seems like there is a medication for every possible ailment threatening senior citizens. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs can treat diseases, minimize symptoms, and contribute to a longer, healthier life.

However, medication cannot be "taken lightly", and is a more complicated issue than just swallowing pills. Making sure your medication is being used the correct way, playing an active part in the decision making about your treatment, and following your prescription plan just as your doctor prescribed it will help you avoid many of the side effects and complications that can happen from using your medication in the wrong way.

Your Body is Your Own

Take an active stance in your own treatment. Ask questions of your doctor and express your concerns. Jot down notes to bring to the doctors office so you can formulate all your questions ahead of time. Don't worry about being a nuisance. If it's helpful, have a friend or family member come along with you to encourage you to be open and honest about your concerns and problems. Ask these key questions when your doctor suggests a new medication:

What are the benefits and risks of the medication?

How often will the effects of the medication be checked by you or your doctor? Meaning, how often do we follow-up to see if the meds are having the desired effect?

Will this new medication have any adverse interaction with the current meds you are taking?

Tell your doctor what preferences you have in terms of medicines. Do you want a low dose? Low side-effects? Easy to swallow?

Tell your doctor about any allergies you have or any negative experiences with past medicines.

Tell your doctor about any other medicines being prescribed by another doctor.

Efficiency is Key

When prescribed a new medicine, ask these questions of your doctor or pharmacist:

What's the name of the medication and what's its purpose?

How often and at what time of day do you take the medicine? How much, and for how long?

Are there any foods, beverages, other medicines, or activities that you need to avoid while on the medication?

What are the possible side-effects, and what should you do if they happen?

Will you get refills? If so, how often?

What happens if you miss a dose?

Is there a brochure or pamphlet you can take with you?

Give and Receive Feedback

When using your medication, keep your doctor informed on how it's working, how you're feeling, any problems you're having, and whether any new medicines have been added by another doctor. Ask your doctor for the results of all medical tests evaluating your progress on the drug.