Medication Safety & Understanding Your Prescriptions
October 19, 2026
Medications play a vital role in treating illnesses, managing chronic conditions and improving overall health. However, taking them safely requires more than simply following instructions – it requires understanding.
Each year, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration receives more than 100,000 reports of medication errors, many of which are preventable. These errors, along with adverse side effects, contribute to a significant number of emergency department visits and hospitalizations. This is why medication safety and education are essential. According to Dr. Karen Muir, Chief Pharmacy Officer at EHS, the more informed you are about your prescriptions, the better equipped you are to minimize risks and achieve the greatest benefit from your pharmacologic treatment.
Why Understanding Your Medication Matters
Before starting any new medication, it’s important to understand its purpose. Ask questions such as: Is this medication treating a current condition, preventing a future health issue, or helping to manage symptoms?
When patients don’t fully understand why a medication has been prescribed, they may be less likely to take it correctly or at all. It’s equally important to know how long the medication should be taken (short-term vs. long-term), when and how to take it and what outcomes to expect. Having this clarity supports consistency and fosters greater confidence in your care.
Know the Side Effects And When to Act
All medications carry the potential for side effects, but not all side effects are cause for concern. Before starting a new medication, your provider or pharmacist should review common or expected reactions, more serious side effects to watch for and when to seek medical attention. Being well-informed helps you distinguish between what is normal and what may require follow-up care. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always best to ask questions early.
Avoiding Medication Interactions
Certain medications, supplements and even foods can interact with one another, sometimes reducing effectiveness or increasing risk.
To stay safe:
- Share a full list of medications and supplements with your provider
- Ask about foods or drinks to avoid
- Check with a pharmacist before starting any new over-the-counter medication
Pharmacists are one of the most accessible healthcare resources and can provide valuable guidance on how to safely manage your medications.
Common Medication Mistakes and How to Prevent Them
Medication errors can happen at any stage, but many are preventable. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Taking multiple medications for the same condition without realizing it
- Mixing prescriptions with over-the-counter medications that may interact
- Not following dosage or timing instructions
The best way to prevent these issues is simple: Ask questions. Before starting any new medications – whether over-the-counter or prescription – take a moment to confirm how it fits into your current routine.
What to Do If You Have Questions or Miss a Dose
If you’re unsure how to take your medication, miss a dose or experience a side effect, reach out to your provider or pharmacist immediately. Contact your provider or pharmacist right away if:
- You are unsure about dosing or timing
- You miss a dose and don’t know what to do next
- You experience unexpected or concerning side effects
Some side effects may require urgent care or emergency evaluation, so it’s important to take symptoms seriously and seek guidance when needed.