What are most of your interactions with your pharmacist like? If you're like most people, you pick up your medications from them, let them ring you out, and then head home. But pharmacists are trained to do so much more than dispense medications. They have a wealth of knowledge, and they can share that knowledge with you as long as you ask. Here are some helpful conversations you may want to have with your pharmacist at one time or another.
What supplements should you be taking?
There are so many supplements on the market today, and most of these supplement companies market their products heavily, using language that's not always as clear or honest as it could be. Some supplements are a waste of money, and others may be more helpful than you realize. If you tell your pharmacist a little about yourself and what problems you're trying to address, they can point you towards the best supplements for your needs. They can also make dose recommendations or tell you which side effects to watch out for with certain supplements.
What over-the-counter medication is best for your issues?
Whether you are looking for a medication to help you sleep, something to fight headaches, or something to calm a cough, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the many options on the shelf. A pharmacist may spend most of their time working with prescription meds, but they are knowledgeable on over-the-counter medications, too. The next time you're not sure which pain reliever is best for headaches or which cold medicine you can take without worrying about drowsiness, ask your pharmacist.
Are there generic alternatives to the medications you are taking?
Buying generic versions of both over-the-counter and prescription medications is a great way to save money. Often, the generic medications contain the same active ingredients and do the exact same thing as the more expensive, name-brand drugs. So, when you have a few spare minutes, you may want to stop by the pharmacy and run down your list of medications you're taking with the pharmacist. Ask them which ones they can recommend generic replacements for. You might be surprised how much money you save by making a few product switches.
Your pharmacist is a great resource, sitting right at your fingertips at a local drugstore. Talk to them about supplements, over-the-counter meds, and generics, and you will learn more than you ever imagined.
Share24 March 2021
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