8 Essential Questions to Master Your Parent’s New Prescriptions

As a nurse who’s been around the block a few times in the healthcare world, I’ve picked up a thing or two about making the most out of doctor’s appointments. Especially when it comes to the subject of medications.

As we assist our parents with health management it’s crucial to ask the right questions particularly when new medications are prescribed or during medication reviews.

Here are my essential questions you should consider asking during those visits.

8 Essential Questions

1. What’s this medication all about?  Let’s start with the basics. Start by asking the doctor the name of the medication and what its purpose is. Understanding why the medication is prescribed helps us understand why it’s part of the plan.

2. Any weird side effects I should know about? Some meds come with a laundry list of potential side effects. Find the common ones so you know what to watch out for and your parents know what to report to you if necessary.

3. How do I take it exactly? When do I take it? In the morning? In the evening? With food? Empty Stomach? Ask exactly how the medication should be taken, the dose, and any specific administration guidelines.

4. Are there any restrictions for food, drink, other meds I should know about? Let’s start with the fact that some medications don’t mix with particular foods, alcohol, or other medications your parent may be taking. Did you know you can’t have grapefruit with several kinds of blood pressure medications? Understanding these considerations helps prevent complications and ensures the medication is working correctly.

5. Could lifestyle changes help us get rid of this medication someday? Sometimes, simple lifestyle and dietary changes reduce the need for or discontinue the medication in the future. Ask the doctor if there are things you can do to help your aging parent’s condition so you can take one less pill and avoid any side effects.

6. Whoops! What if I missed a dose? Or took too many? Now what? Let’s start with the bIf we accidentally miss a dose or double up, knowing the best course of action is essential to keep things on track and avoid complications.

7. When can we expect results? Discuss the expected timeline for the medication to start working and the signs to look for to gauge its effectiveness.

8. What’s the plan if things get strange? If things start feeling off or you notice any unexpected symptoms, it helps to know who to call and what to do. This ensures you get the assistance promptly, especially when necessary.

There you have it — your cheat sheet to the world of my essential questions to ask your doctor. Remember, healthcare is a team effort, and these specialists are here to help you live your best, healthiest life. By tossing these questions into the mix, we can ensure our loved ones are getting the most out of those doctor visits and to help keep our loved ones on the path to good health. Medications can be a confusing part of this journey, and if you need us, we’re here to help.

And remember that together…