Prescription Drugs – Do Your Research

Medical advances like prescription medications have saved millions of lives. Just about all of us have taken a prescription medication at some point to treat an infection or medical condition.

Unfortunately, prescription medications also have side effects. Some are listed on the drug's packaging, while others are not. And a few could cause serious medical complications or even death.

Doctors and medical professionals may tell you about the side effects you may experience, but as an injury lawyer I've learned that you should always do everything you possible can to prevent problems.

Before you begin to take a prescription medication, be sure to do the following:

• Let your doctor or medical professional know what medications (prescription AND non-prescription) you currently take – including vitamins and supplements.
• Ask the pharmacist any questions you have about the prescription.
• Read the medication's instructions on the label, as well as all other information included.
• For the first few days or weeks, pay extra attention to the way you react to the drug. Don't rely on memory; take notes and keep track of dates.
• Check these websites:

• People's Pharmacy – contains information about medication side
  effects, including a forum for people to share their experiences
• MedWatch – a Food & Drug Administration (FDA) resource to
  report side effects and problems with medications (you can sign up
  to receive updates for specific drugs)
• RxIsk – a reporting tool that asks visitors questions and helps
  determine whether symptoms may be related to a drug

For many people, prescription medications improve their quality of life. I hope that this is the case for you and that you never become a victim of an unsafe prescription medication. But if you are, our law firm can help you learn your legal options with a no obligation, free case review