APPROPRIATE USE

Always follow safe medication use tips:

• Do not share your prescription painkillers or other medications with anyone.
• Do not take someone else’s prescription medication.
• Store your prescription painkillers and other medications securely.
• Safely dispose of expired, unused, or unwanted prescription medications.

When picking up a prescription…

• Read and examine the label. The label contains important information from your pharmacist.
• Count the number of pills in the bottle and be sure it matches the amount indicated on the label.
• If the label describes what the pills should look like, make sure what’s in the bottle matches. If not, tell your pharmacist.
• When you pick up a refill, examine the pills to be sure they look the same as the last batch.
• If you have questions about the ingredients, warnings, directions, or anything else having to do with your prescription, ask the pharmacist while you’re there.

When taking medication at home…

• Take prescription painkillers only as long as they’re needed, and never take more than directed by your prescribing medical professional.
• Always double check the label to be sure you’re taking the correct pill.
• Do not crush pills unless you have been instructed to do so by your doctor or pharmacist.

If something goes wrong…

• If you or someone you know has an adverse reaction to a new prescription, call your doctor immediately.
• If you miss a dose, call your doctor for instructions.
• If you take too large of a dose or accidentally take the wrong medication, call the poison control center immediately at 800-222-1222.