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\nMedicines can help you feel better and get well when you are sick. But if you don\u2019t follow the directions, medicines can hurt you.
\nYou can lower your chances of side effects from medicines by carefully following the directions on the medicine label or from your pharmacist, doctor, or nurse.
\nSide effects may be mild, like an upset stomach. Other side effects \u2013 like damage to your liver \u2013 can be more serious. Some side effects can even be deadly.
\nTake these simple steps to avoid problems with medicines.
\nThe 2 categories of medicine are prescription and over-the-counter (OTC).
\nPrescription medicines are medicines you can get only with a prescription (order) from your doctor. You get these medicines from a pharmacy.
\nPrescription medicines shouldn\u2019t be used by anyone except the person whose name is on the prescription.
\nGet rid of expired (out-of-date) or unused prescription medicines. Learn about how to get rid of medicines safely or ask your pharmacist for tips.
\nSometimes you can choose between a generic medicine and a brand name medicine. Generic and brand name medicines work the same way, but generic medicine usually costs less.
\nTalk to your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance company for more information about generic medicines. Learn more about generic medicines.
\nOver-the-counter (OTC) medicines are medicines you can buy at a store without a prescription.
\nSome examples of OTC medicines include:
\nAll OTC medicines come with a Drug Facts label. The information on this label can help you choose the right OTC medicine for your symptoms.
\nThe Drug Facts label also gives you instructions for using the medicine safely. OTC medicines can cause side effects or harm if you use too much or don\u2019t use them correctly.
\nFollowing the directions on the Drug Facts label will lower your chances of side effects. Learn more about what\u2019s on the Drug Facts label.
\nYour doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can also help you choose OTC medicines and answer any questions you may have.
\nPrevent problems and mistakes with your medicines.
\nBe sure to read the directions carefully when taking prescription or OTC medicines. Review this guide to using OTC medicines safely [PDF - 944 KB].
\nIf you notice unpleasant side effects after taking medicine, like feeling dizzy or having an upset stomach, call your doctor or nurse.
\nBefore you use any new prescription medicines, tell your doctor:
\nBe sure to keep taking prescription medicines until your doctor tells you it\u2019s okay to stop \u2013 even if you are feeling better. If you're worried the medicine is making you feel worse, tell your doctor. Sometimes you can get side effects from stopping your medicine.
\nTo use a medicine safely, you need to know:
\nAsk your doctor or nurse questions to be sure you understand how to use your medicine. Take notes to help you remember the answers. You can even ask to record the instructions on your phone.
\nYou can also ask a pharmacist if you forget how to use a medicine or you don\u2019t understand the directions. Use these tips to talk with a pharmacist about your medicines.
\nMedicines that are stored correctly last longer and work better.
\nCall the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) right away if a child or someone else accidentally uses your medicine.
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