Your Pharmacy Options

Doctors help patients manage their health by diagnosing and prescribing treatments for various ailments and conditions. If you require prescription medication, you'll need to pick your medicine up from a pharmacy. Pharmacies fill patients' prescriptions and help patients learn to take their medications safely and effectively. These are four things that can be provided upon request at your local pharmacy:

1. Supplies for Diabetes Management

Diabetes is a lifelong condition that affects the body's ability to produce insulin. Fortunately, it can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication. Pharmacies can supply patients with the equipment they need to manage their diabetes. You can feel insulin prescriptions at the pharmacy and purchase lancets and syringes to check your blood sugar and administer your medication. Many pharmacies keep these supplies behind the counter, so you can ask your local pharmacist for assistance.

2. Drug Interaction Information

Some medications interact with other drugs to produce unwanted effects in the body. Certain foods can also interact with medications. Your pharmacist can review all the drugs you're taking to ensure that they're safe to take together. Your pharmacist can also give you advice on food and beverages you should avoid, such as grapefruit juice or alcohol, when taking certain medications. Speaking to your pharmacist about drug interactions can help you feel confident and informed when managing your medication.

3. Dosing Instructions

Certain drugs must be taken at the same time each day. Likewise, certain medications must be taken with food to protect the stomach, while other medications should be taken on an empty stomach for proper absorption. Your pharmacist can help you figure out when and how to take your medication based on your doctor's instructions and their expertise. Pharmacists may be able to give you advice that can help you minimize the negative side effects of drugs while still reaping their benefits.

4. Medication Pickup And Delivery

Finally, some pharmacies offer additional options for medication pickup or delivery. The ability to call your pharmacy ahead of time to schedule refills can save you the trouble of waiting in line. Your pharmacy can notify you when your medication is ready for pickup. Some pharmacies even deliver medications to patients' homes in the mail. If you're eligible for delivery, having your drugs delivered can save you time and ensure that you never run out of medication simply because you don't have the opportunity to visit the pharmacy in person.