John Picoulas: How to Use Your Pharmacist Properly

What is a pharmacist’s purpose?

Most people are not aware of the value of a good pharmacist because they do not use their pharmacists properly. In this article, Doctor of Pharmacy John Picoulas provides instructions for making the most out of prescription medicines by learning to take advantage of the pharmacist’s knowledge.

Pharmacists are Medication Experts
You may not have ever thought about it, but a pharmacist’s job entails a lot more than simply counting out tablets and having you sign forms. For every prescription that is filled, the pharmacist has to ensure the information given by the prescriber is complete and that the new medicine won’t have any adverse reactions to medicines you are currently taking. The pharmacist must also ensure the medication called in by the prescriber and the dosage are appropriate for your specific condition and needs.

Pharmacists also must make sure you know how to properly take and store the medicine. Use this expertise to your advantage when picking up a prescription at the pharmacy. If you are unclear of any instructions given by your provider, ask the pharmacist. They are fully capable of explaining your medicine and how to properly take it and they may even have more time to answer your questions than a doctor who is rushing through your appointment.

Ask Your Pharmacist About Non-Prescription Medication
We’ve established that pharmacists are the medication experts. So, why not ask them about the non-prescription medication you’re taking too? Over the counter drugs can still be powerful and if they aren’t taken correctly can cause adverse side effects, especially in conjunction with prescription medicine. So, if you’re at the drug store picking up an over the counter medication for the common cold, pop over and chat with your pharmacist about it and see what they have to say about the safety of the drug.

Make Sure You Have Everything You Need
If you’re picking up liquid medication, make sure there is a spoon or cup available to take home with you. Your pharmacist can clarify which method works best for certain medications. If you are picking up medication for a child, the pharmacist will be able to tell you the safe dose and may even have a special children’s medicine cup or syringe.

Keeping in Touch With Your Pharmacy
The beauty of pharmacies is that they often have longer hours than a traditional doctor’s office. So, if your kid isn’t feeling well after soccer practice, chances are the pharmacist will still be in and available to help you choose the best medicine for them, even if it is over the counter. Make sure you have the pharmacy’s phone number in your contacts as well as their hours so you can call with any questions when necessary.

Stay With One Pharmacy
It’s important to develop a close relationship with your pharmacist in order to get the most out of their expertise. By sticking with one pharmacy and pharmacist, all of your medication history and family history will be in one easily-accessible place and you won’t have to worry about transferring records or notes getting lost. When you develop a relationship with your pharmacist, you’ll also have the added benefit of them remembering details about you and feeling comfortable to ask them questions.

An open relationship with your pharmacist is key to keeping you as healthy as possible. When you work together with your pharmacist and make sure your medications are being taken safely and properly, you will be able to maintain optimal health.