Why your pharmacist is your best friend…

Why your pharmacist is your best friend… | August 1, 2024

Your pharmacist is the least expensive and most accessible health resource you have.

They fill prescriptions and provide expert information about medications — a very important role, considering the prominent use of seizure medications to treat epilepsy.

You can see the pharmacist anytime you want, without an appointment, and all consultations are free.

In medicine, that’s extraordinary.

Plus, they have an amazing wealth of knowledge at their fingertips, which means at your fingertips. Many pharmacists also have access to new technology that can answer questions such as, “Is it safe to take this brand-new medication with this even newer medication?”

What’s more, they get a soldier’s view of patients with similar conditions, using different medications every day. They see who improves and who complains about side effects.

Plus, pharmacists can be helpful in discussing the potential adverse effects of medications, their costs, the relative risks and benefits of generic versus brand-name medications and potential interactions.

The “Four Cs” of pharmacy visits:

One way to keep your epilepsy treatment on track is to stick to the treatment plan you and your doctor agreed upon. Check your prescription every time you pick it up at the pharmacy and think of “The Four Cs” …

1. Compare the new pill bottle label with the label on your last prescription.

2. Check that the pills look exactly the same (size, shape, color, and imprint).

3. Confirm with the pharmacist (if anything looks different) that he or she is aware of any change and has discussed it with your doctor.

4. Contact your doctor (or have your pharmacist call him or her) if your doctor did not request a change to your prescription.

Manage your prescriptions

Don’t forget to write down the names of all of your medicines and supplements, along with the dosage and who makes it. (I keep a copy on file, update it when necessary and then just make copies to bring with me.) Take this list with you to any doctor’s appointments and trips to the pharmacy.

Talk to your pharmacist about each medicine you’re picking up, why it is prescribed and how you should take it.

And build a relationship with your pharmacist just as you do with your doctor.

Say “Yes” the next time you are asked if you want to talk to the pharmacist.

As Kristin Weitzel, PharmD, CDE, Assistant Editor for Pharmacist’s Letter says: “The key for health professionals is to focus on the needs of the patient. Pharmacists are in an ideal position to help epilepsy patients by using their clinical judgment…”

Epilepsy Talk