When you receive a prescription, it’s important to understand exactly what it means. Understanding your prescription helps ensure you know the medicine’s name, purpose, directions for use, and any important precautions.
Whether the prescription comes from an in-person consultation or a telehealth appointment, taking the time to clarify details with your doctor or pharmacist helps you use your medicines safely and effectively.
This article will guide you through the key parts of a prescription and the important questions to ask about your medication.
What Information Does a Prescription Include?
Understanding your prescription is more than just knowing the name of a medicine. You should also be knowledgeable of the following:
- Patient details (your name and sometimes date of birth)
- Prescriber details (doctor’s name, prescriber number, clinic’s contact information)
- Medication name (brand or generic), strength, and form (tablet, capsule, liquid, etc.)
- Directions for use (how much to take, how often, and for how long)
- Refill permissions (how many repeats are allowed)
- Substitution notes (if a generic alternative can be used)
If anything is unclear, such as abbreviations or instructions, always ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain.
Questions to Ask Before Starting a New Medicine
Having a checklist of questions makes it easier to feel confident about a new prescription. Some useful ones include:
- What is the name of the medicine, and what condition is it for?
- Why am I taking this medicine?
- How and when should I take it? (dose, frequency, with or without food)
- How long should I take it for?
- What changes should I expect? (e.g. monitoring, follow-up tests)
- What side effects should I be aware of, and what should I do if I notice them?
- Are there any interactions with my other medicines, food, alcohol, or supplements?
- How should I store the medicine? (room temperature, fridge, away from light)
- Is a generic substitution available? (to help manage costs)
- What should I do if I miss a dose or need to stop
- When should I contact my doctor or pharmacist for advice?
Bringing a written list of questions to your consultation can help you remember to cover everything important.
Side Effects and Interactions
All medicines can have side effects. For instance, some may be mild, while others may require medical attention. In these cases, your doctor or pharmacist can explain which effects are common, which are less likely, and which require prompt review.
In addition, it is also important to ask about drug interactions, which can occur with other prescriptions, over-the-counter products, herbal remedies, or even certain foods and drinks. For example, some medicines may be less effective when taken with supplements or alcohol. Therefore, always let your doctor and pharmacist know about all the medicines and supplements you are taking.
Cost and Generic Alternatives
Medicine costs can vary. In Australia, many prescriptions are subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which can make them more affordable. If a medicine is not listed on the PBS, you may pay the full price.
You can ask your pharmacist if there is a generic version available. Generic medicines have the same active ingredient as brand-name medicines and must meet the same quality and safety standards set by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Choosing a generic can sometimes lower the cost, but the decision to substitute should be made in consultation with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Safe Use and Storage
Following your prescription exactly as written is important. Always check:
- The directions for use (how much, how often, with or without food)
- Duration of treatment (short course vs ongoing use)
- Storage requirements (room temperature, refrigeration, away from moisture or sunlight)
Using tools such as pill organisers, reminders, or apps can also help you take medicines at the right times.
If you take multiple prescriptions, a medication review with your doctor or pharmacist can ensure everything is still needed, safe, and working well together. This process is sometimes referred to as medication management or deprescribing, and it can be a crucial component of long-term care.
When to Seek Further Advice
If you are unsure about your medicine, notice unexpected effects, or have questions about cost or alternatives, contact your doctor or pharmacist. After all, it is always safer to double-check rather than guess.
Furthermore, understanding your prescription means knowing what you are taking, why you are taking it, and how to use it safely. Ultimately, asking the right questions helps you feel confident and supported throughout your treatment.
If you need medical advice, prescriptions, or follow-up care, ClinicALL provides access to AHPRA-registered doctors via telehealth. Appointments can be booked online 24/7, making it easier to connect with a doctor when you need to discuss your prescriptions or other health concerns.