You know what you eat, but do you know your prescriptions?

I was talking to a patient the other day. I was trying to figure out what prescriptions he needed refill. First I must say this gentleman was not the typical health illiterate patient. He was very well spoken and educated. He simply told me to refill 2 of his 5 current medications. I asked him what does he take the meds for. He had no idea. This is not something new; it happens daily in the pharmacy. My question to you is do you eat food that you do not know what it is? Why do we take meds? Is the reason for taking them simply because the doctor said so. You cannot begin to take your medications prescription or over-the-counter correctly unless you know why you're taking it. You are probably wondering what does learning about your prescriptions have to do with abuse. You must know how to take your prescriptions correctly in order not to abuse them. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about your medication. Learn about your medications, do not simple take them because someone told you too. You should know what medications you're putting in your mouth.