Medication Basics
Medications work best when taken at the same ______ every day.
time
Which side effect might require adjusting the time of day a medication is taken?
Drowsiness or insomnia.
True or False: all medications work the same for everyone.
False
What role can caregivers play in medication adherence?
They can help organize medications, provide reminders, and monitor for side effects.
What part of the human body contains the smallest bones?
The ear
This is a person you should talk to if you have questions about your medication
Doctor, nurse, pharmacist
Why is hydration important when managing medication side effects?
Dehydration can worsen side effects like dizziness, constipation, or kidney stress.
True or False: you should not stop medication without medical advice.
True
What is the main purpose of using a pill organizer? (be specific!)
To help ensure medications are taken correctly and reduce missed or double doses.
Name 3 ways to save money on medications.
Ask for generic alternatives, use discount programs, ask to switch to 90 day supply instead of 30 day refills, try retail pharmacies (Walmart, Costco) instead of traditional pharmacies.
This is what a medication is meant to do in your body.
help manage symptoms/improve health/improve functioning
When should you contact your doctor instead of managing a side effect on your own?
When the side effect is severe, worsening, unexpected, or interferes with daily activities.
True or False: side effects always mean a medication is bad for you?
False
What is one common reason people struggle with medication adherence?
Forgetfulness, side effects, cost, or complex dosing schedules.
Which fruit can interact with some prescription drugs?
Grapefruit
Stopping medication suddenly without medical advice may cause what?
Withdrawl symptoms or return of symptoms
Why might a provider start a medication at a low dose and increase it slowly?
To minimize side effects and allow the body to adjust safely.
What should you do if you forget to take a dose of your medication?
Resume as normal. Never double dose or play “catch up”.
Why should refills be requested BEFORE medications run out?
To avoid missed doses, withdrawal symptoms, and return symptoms
Which continent has the most countries?
Africa
Taking medication exactly as prescribed is called what?
Medication adherence or compliance
Why should side effects be reported even if they seem mild?
Mild side effects can worsen, affect adherence, or signal a larger problem over time.
True or False: psychiatric medications may take weeks to show full benefit.
True
Tracking symptoms over-time helps evaluate this
What is "medication effectiveness"
Which river is the longest in the world?
The Nile