Monitor the effects of your medication

To ensure the safe use of medicines, it is important to know what the medicines are used for and how you can monitor their beneficial and harmful effects.

You can use the following questions, for example, to support a discussion with a doctor or a pharmacist about identifying the effects of medicinal treatment. The package leaflet also contains information about the effects of the medicine.

• How are the effects of the medicinal treatment monitored?

• What is the aim of the medicinal treatment (e.g. curing an illness or improving functional capacity)?

• Can you observe the effect yourself?

• Is it necessary to monitor the effect with laboratory tests, for example?

• How long does it take for the medicine to take effect?

• When should you contact your doctor, if the medicine does not take effect?

Tell your doctor about the effects of the medicine.

You can use the following questions to discuss adverse effects and drug interactions. You can discuss them with a doctor or a pharmacist. More information can also be found on the package leaflet.

• Will there be any temporary adverse effects at the beginning of treatment?

• With regard to adverse effects, when should I contact my doctor immediately?

• Is there anything you can do to prevent or alleviate adverse effects?

• Is the new medicine compatible with the other medicines you are taking?

• Is the over-the-counter drug you are taking compatible with your other medicines and illnesses and is it the correct choice for your symptoms?

Tell the doctor or pharmacy about any adverse effects or other problems you experience.

Go to regular check-ups agreed with health care professionals. In chronic illnesses, it is recommended to monitor the situation regularly.