Following points should be reinforced to the patients when they visit the pharmacy

A. Do not indulges in self medications.

B. All drugs are potentially dangerous, so use with caution

C. While traveling always keeps a note in the pocket mentioning the names of the drugs one is taking. Also mention what is to be done if patient is found unconscious& whom to inform.

D. Inform the doctor & pharmacist both about drugs one is already taking & about any allergies or previous drug reactions.

E. Never use a medicines form an unlabelled container.

F. Always check the expiry date of the medicine before taking it.

G. Always take medicine as prescribed, i.e. before, after or with meals.

H .Take the medicines at the time prescribed by the doctor & take it every day at the same time. In case one misses a dose never take a double dose but ask the doctor or the pharmacist for guidance.

I. Take the medicines for number of days as prescribed & don’t exceed the dose .Always complete the course of antibiotics to prevent development of resistance.

J. If one falls short of the drug during the course of therapy always buy the same brand form same manufacturer.

K. If one develops new symptoms while on a drug, stop the drug & consult the doctor or pharmacist immediately.

L. If one takes alcohol always ask the doctor or pharmacist about the concomitant use of alcohol with the medicine.

M. Keep all medicines away from the reach of children. In case of accidental ingestion by the child, immediately shift the child to a hospital. Do remember to take the remaining medicines and/or its container along with.

Compiled by –Santosh  Ghodinde ,Community Pharmacist, Dhanwantari Medical, Panvel.