Key questions to ensure correct medication use
Medication only works properly if taken correctly. If patients fail to ask key questions during the consultation, they risk missing out on the full effect of the medication. That’s why it is so important for patients to be given the opportunity to ask questions about medication during the consultation.
Risks associated with not asking questions
If you do not know exactly why a medication has been prescribed, how it works or how it could affect you, you risk taking it incorrectly.
Research has shown that even small uncertainties or misunderstandings can lead to medication being taken less frequently or incorrectly, making it less effective. 1) 2)
The risk of side effects, complications or even failure of the treatment increases significantly if questions about taking the medication, interactions with other substances or existing medical conditions are not addressed in consultation with the doctor.
Ask questions at the outset
Especially when starting a new treatment, you may have many questions:
- What happens if I forget a dose?
- What side effects may I experience?
- For how long do I have to take the medication?
- What do I need to bear in mind on an everyday basis?
Besides being entirely reasonable, these questions are crucial for your health. Research has shown that asking the right questions during consultations helps you better understand the treatment, recognise risks earlier and avoid side effects. In addition, it helps you to take the medication regularly and correctly, significantly increasing the efficacy of the treatment. 4)
Patient compliance starts with understanding
Patient compliance is key to treatment success. This means taking your medication as instructed – the correct dose at the right time for the specified period. 5) This is best achieved when you know why you are taking a medication, how it works and how it will impact your health. 6) Understanding your treatment will keep you motivated and ensure that you stay the course.
Understanding your treatment is key to staying motivated.
Full disclosure is essential for treatment success
It is important to tell your doctor or healthcare professional what other medications you are already taking and if you have any other conditions. This information will help your doctor choose the right treatment for you and avoid dangerous interactions. Working with your doctor ensures that your medications are coordinated optimally and as effective as possible.
EverAsk for effective doctor-patient consultations
Prepare well for your upcoming doctor’s consultation. EverAsk offers structured assistance with preparing for the consultation, ensuring that you note down all your questions before the appointment.
The app offers an input mask for new or more complex health issues, where you can enter medication regimes and medical reports, for example.
During the consultation, speak up if you do not understand anything and, if anything is unclear, ask for clarification.
Useful questions when being prescribed medication
Benefit & purpose:
- What exactly does the medication do?
- What are the specific benefits?
How to take & dosage:
- How, when and how often should I take the medication?
- For how long should I take it?
- Are there any specific requirements when taking it (e.g. with or without food)? Should I avoid certain foods?
- Where and how should I store the medication (e.g. in a cool or dry place?)
Side effects & risks:
- What side effects could occur, and what is their likelihood?
- How serious could these side effects be?
- Does the benefit of the medication outweigh the potential risks?
Interactions with other medications:
- I am currently taking other medications. Is an interaction possible?
- What medications or substances should I avoid while taking this medication?
Effect & success monitoring:
- When can I expect the medication to take effect?
- How can I tell if it is working?
Regular monitoring:
- What monitoring (for example, blood tests) is required during the treatment?
- How often should this monitoring be carried out?
Still have questions?
If you have any questions about your medication or how to take it, your first port of call should always be your doctor.
If you are unable to reach them and you are a KPT customer, you can contact the Medi24 hotline with medication-related questions around the clock, 365 days a year:
+41 58 310 99 99.
Sources
- https://cpdonline.co.uk/knowledge-base/care/educating-patients-about-medications (7)
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2728700/ (5)
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10549619/ (6)
- https://www.studysmarter.de/ausbildung/ausbildung-in-der-medizin/physiotherapeut-ausbildung/therapietreue/ (9)
- https://cll-info.de/ratgeber/therapietreue-zaehlt-adhaerenz-im-blickpunkt/ (10)
- https://www.copd-deutschland.de/links-von-startseite/compliance-des-patienten-was-foerdert-was-verhindert-die-therapietreue (8)
- https://iris.who.int/bitstream/handle/10665/42682/9241545992.pdf;jsessionid=AA723E8691FE33FB6A489F3BC797A9B8?sequence=1