Questions to Ask When Your Doctor Prescribes a Medication

Prices for prescription medication are surging faster than prices for any other medical service or good, according to GoodRx. Did you know the average annual cost of a specialty medication is $5,029 (that’s over $400/month)? This means if your doctor wants to treat your illness or symptoms with a prescription medication, ask questions to be sure what you are taking is necessary, safe and cost effective:

• Why did you choose this particular medication? 
  • Different types of medications are associated with different side effects, risks, and costs. Some medications are prescribed because they are less expensive, and some are prescribed because they work best with other medications you may be taking.
  • If you are prescribed a specialty medication, ask if there is a generic equivalent you can take first. If a generic isn’t available, ask for a brand-name medication from the Preferred Prescription Formulary list.
• I take [provide your doctor with a complete list all of your medications, including over-the-counter pills, supplements and vitamins you take]. Is it safe for me to also take what you are prescribing? 
• Will this medication interact with my other medication?
• Should I take any precautions while I am on this medication? 
• What do I do if I miss a dose of this medication?
• What are the side effects I could experience? And what should I do if they occur?
• Are there any foods (like dairy products or foods high in vitamin K) I should avoid while taking this medicine?
• Can I take this on an empty stomach?
• What else should I know about this medication?

To learn more about your prescription drug coverage, click here.