Looking for information on a particular medication?
More than 3000 products are listed on online pharmacy databases, including both branded and generic medicines. These are reviewed and updated daily as to provide the more common choices. Our vision is that people everywhere have access to the essential medications they need; that the medications are safe, effective and of assured quality; and that they are prescribed and used rationally. The internet has made this possible.
Many kinds of medications still have components with the potential to cause effects that can be poisonous, or possibly fatal, if taken in excess.
Some medications are available on a doctor’s prescription only, while others can be bought over the counter. In either case, misuse of medication may be dangerous to your health so when ordering online safety is still the rule. Purchasing medications from online pharmacy sites is cost effective and simple but don't let the simplicity give you as false sense of security, instructions still must be followed.
Everyone knows what medications are for – to make you feel better when you are sick. But many people don't realize that all medicines have risks as well as benefits. The risks of medications include unwanted side effects or interactions with food or other medications you may be taking. Some risks aren't very serious, like an upset stomach. Others, like liver damage, are more serious.
More prescription and over-the-counter medicines are taken by people age 65 and older than any other age group. Because they may have a number of health problems or issues at the same time, it is common for seniors to take many different drugs. Older people as a group tend to have more long-term, chronic illnesses such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
You can learn more about how to take medicines safely by reading this guide. It answers common questions about getting and taking medicines and has many handy forms that will help you keep track of information. Keep this guide with your medicines in case you have any questions, concerns, or worries.
This guide was developed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) and the National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE).
Select to download the print version (PDF File, 143 KB). PDF Help.
When a medicine’s benefits outweigh its known risks, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration considers it safe enough to approve. Both prescription and over-the-counter medication must be approved before they can be sold in the U.S.
To reduce the risk of a problem, follow the directions carefully when taking medicines. Make sure that your health care provider knows all of the medicines and supplements you are using. Also, make sure to mention if you are pregnant or nursing. Some pescribed medicines can hurt your baby.