Frequently Asked Questions about Arthritis Medications.

Last updated Friday, January 07, 2005

Questions to ask your doctor

What should people with arthritis ask their doctors about their medications?

Taking any kind of medicine, particularly on a regular basis, is serious business. Unfortunately, not enough people regard this as seriously as they should. On average, one-half to three-fourths of the people who take medications take them at the wrong time of the day or in the wrong amount, skip doses, or stop the drug too soon.

Here are some basic questions to ask your doctor and pharmacist. Write the answers down so you'll remember them.

1. What is the name of the medicine?
2. When should I take it? For example, before, after, or with meals?
3. How long should I take it?
4. How often should I take it?
5. Can this drug be taken with other medications? (Tell your doctors and pharmacist about all the medications you're taking.)
6. Is there a generic form available, and if so, can I take it?
7. Are there other less expensive alternatives?
8. What benefits will I notice, and how soon will these become apparent?
9. What side effects might I experience, and what should I do if I notice them?
10. If I feel better, can I stop taking the medicine? If I feel no effects or feel worse, can I stop on my own?
11. When and how will this drug be assessed for benefits and/or toxicity?
12. What should I do if I miss a dose?
13. Under what conditions can I increase or decrease the total daily dose of my medication?

Getting the answers to these questions before taking the medicine may help you avoid serious side effects.

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