7 Common Medication Mistakes Pharmacists Wish You’d Stop Making

Before you head to the pharmacy for your next prescription, there are a few things your pharmacist would like you to consider. Many customers overlook important details about medication safety and savings, which can make a big difference.

For example, up to a third of adults reportedly prefer costlier brand-name drugs over more affordable generics, according to Johns Hopkins University. Additionally, a February 2022 study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology revealed that nearly half of survey respondents admit to sharing their prescription medications with household members.

These habits, pharmacists caution, are risky—and they’re not the only ones to watch out for. Below, discover some common medication missteps and expert advice on how to avoid them.

Mistake 1: Sharing Your Medication

It may seem harmless to share a few of your antibiotics with a family member dealing with a similar illness, but “prescription medications should never be shared,” says Jennifer Bourgeois, PharmD, SingleCare’s health and pharmacy expert. Medication can interact unpredictably with other drugs or supplements the other person is taking, or they might require a different dose.

Encourage family or friends who may need similar medication to consult their doctor. If they need it urgently, Summer Kerley, PharmD, Director of Pharmacy and VP of Clinical Operations at Rite Aid, suggests visiting an urgent care clinic.

Mistake 2: Not Asking for the Generic Option

In many cases, opting for generic drugs instead of brand names can result in significant cost savings without compromising quality. “Generic medications are generally less expensive while offering the same physiological effects,” notes Bourgeois. A JAMA Network Open study from March 2021 found that Medicare patients alone could have saved $161 million in 2017 if they or their doctors had chosen generics.

The FDA requires generic drugs to match their branded versions in terms of safety, effectiveness, dosage, and labeling. Kerley encourages patients to ask about generic options if they’re finding their medications costly, as there may also be alternative therapies within the same class that offer generics.

Mistake 3: Not Disclosing Other Medications or Supplements

Be sure to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications, supplements, vitamins, herbs, or even certain teas you’re taking. “Include details on the format and dosage—whether tablets, capsules, liquids, inhalers, or topical creams,” advises Kerley.

This transparency is crucial because medications and supplements can interact in ways that may cause side effects or reduce the effectiveness of your prescriptions. Sharing this information with your healthcare providers allows them to ensure everything in your regimen works together safely.

Mistake 4: Using Multiple Pharmacies for Different Prescriptions

It’s not uncommon for patients to fill different prescriptions at separate pharmacies, says Kerley. However, using one pharmacy for all prescriptions helps reduce the risk of dangerous medication interactions that might reduce effectiveness or cause adverse effects.

If it’s necessary to use multiple pharmacies, such as due to insurance requirements, Kerley advises informing each pharmacist of your complete medication list and carefully managing your prescriptions as directed.

Mistake 5: Overlooking Cost-Saving Options

When starting a new medication, ask your pharmacist about ways to save on costs. “Prescription saving services like SingleCare offer discounts on thousands of medications at no cost,” explains Bourgeois. These tools can be a great resource for managing drug expenses.

Mistake 6: Not Taking Advantage of Preventive Care at the Pharmacy

Pharmacies offer much more than just medication refills. “Many patients may not realize the value of preventive services available, such as immunizations,” says Kerley. Pharmacies can be convenient places to stay updated on vaccines, and pharmacists can guide you on which immunizations, such as flu or COVID-19 shots, might be important for you.

Kerley recommends patients with chronic conditions—such as heart disease, diabetes, or lung issues—review their vaccine needs with their pharmacist.

Mistake 7: Running Out of Essential Medications

If you rely on daily medication for a chronic condition, aim to plan ahead to avoid missing doses. Missing even one dose can decrease a medication’s effectiveness or lead to unwanted side effects.

Bourgeois suggests using automatic refill options if they’re available, or ordering refills at least five days before your supply runs out. “A five-day lead time gives pharmacists enough time to order and prepare the medication,” she notes, ensuring it’s ready when needed.

By being proactive and aware of these common pitfalls, you can help ensure a safer, more cost-effective experience with your medications.

For personalized advice on your prescriptions, Mediserv Pharmacy in Bronx, New York, is here to help. As your local pharmacy, Mediserv Pharmacy offers expert guidance on medication safety, cost-saving options, and preventive care services to help you manage your health effectively. If you have questions about your prescriptions, are interested in generic alternatives, or want to know more about available immunizations, the experienced pharmacists at Mediserv Pharmacy are ready to assist. Visit mediservpharmacy.com for more information or stop by to speak directly with our knowledgeable team.