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Make a list of your medicines

Some medicines (and supplements) shouldn’t mix. That’s why it’s important to tell your doctor about any medicines or supplements you take. If you take multiple meds, it can be a lot to keep track of. Making a list—and bringing it to each medical appointment—can help. Here’s what to include.

How to make your meds list

To manage your medicines safely, it helps to make a list—and keep it up-to-date. Include:

Prescription medications.
Over-the-counter medicines.
Vitamins.
Supplements.
Creams and ointments.
Eye drops.

For each item, note:

The name of the medicine or supplement.
Why you take it.
How often you take it.
How much you take (the dose).
Any questions or concerns you have.

Sources: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; National Institutes of Health; U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Another option: Bring your medicines with you. Your doctor can look at the containers for the information they need to help you stay safe. Check out our Medications page for more on medication safety, or learn more ways to make the most of your next appointment.

Sources

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. "Please Bring ALL Your Medicines to Your Next Appointment." https://www.ahrq.gov/sites/default/files/wysiwyg/professionals/quality-patient-safety/patient-family-engagement/pfeprimarycare/medmanage-ptfactsheet.pdf.

Food and Drug Administration. "Mixing Medications and Dietary Supplements Can Endanger Your Health." https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/mixing-medications-and-dietary-supplements-can-endanger-your-health.

National Institute on Aging. "My Dietary Supplement and Medicine Record." https://ods.od.nih.gov/pubs/DietarySupplementandMedicineRecord.pdf.

National Institute on Aging. "Worksheet 5: Medications." https://www.nia.nih.gov/sites/default/files/2021-06/worksheet-medications.pdf.

Reviewed 10/26/2022