This post was written based on an appearance by Libby Stabler, pharmacist, on the program PBS Healthline.
When you go to the pharmacy to get an over-the-counter or prescription medication, do you talk with the pharmacist? Did you know that your local pharmacist can answer healthcare questions on topics beyond just your medications? Here are three things you might not have known your local pharmacist can assist you with.
Pharmacists can be a medical reference.
With pharmacies in grocery stores and on many street corners, pharmacists are often the most easily accessible healthcare professionals. This is especially true for people who live in more rural areas, where getting to a doctor can be challenging. Don’t be afraid to go in or call the pharmacy to ask the pharmacist any questions you might have. Your pharmacist can help you answer basic healthcare questions, give you suggestions on over-the-counter medicines to get you through until you see your doctor, or even help you determine when to seek a higher level of care.
Pharmacists can help you with over-the-counter medications, too.
Pharmacists are known for consulting on prescription drugs, but they can be a resource on over-the-counter medications as well. If you’re shopping at the pharmacy you regularly use, the pharmacist can even look up your prescription list to recommend over-the-counter medicines that won’t interact with the other medications you’re currently taking.
Pharmacists can also weigh in on the vitamins or supplements you might be thinking about taking and make sure there won’t be any negative drug interactions. Since vitamins and supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor or pharmacist before you start taking them.
Pharmacists can help save you money.
Unless your provider specifies on your prescription that the brand name drug has to be dispensed, if there is a generic medication available, the pharmacy will automatically give you the generic. Generic drugs are just as effective as their brand name counterparts. They are just made by a competitor company to the maker of the brand name version after the original patent on a drug has expired. This means generics are the same medicine, just with a different name and usually at a lower price.
Additionally, pharmacists are well-versed in health insurance and can help you get assistance or discounts on your prescriptions when those are available. If the cost of your medication is higher than you expected, ask the pharmacist to see if you qualify for any coupons or benefits.
Whether to seek advice, explore treatment options or put a little money back in your pocket, don’t underestimate your local pharmacist as a resource as you manage your health. They are more than happy to provide guidance.
