How to read drug labels

Using a prescription medicine can be confusing. It’s hard to remember what your doctor told you. Choosing an over-the-counter drug like a pain reliever or antacid can also be hard. To use medicines safely, you need to know:

  • The drug’s name
  • How to use it
  • How much to use
  • How often to use it
  • When (morning, afternoon, or night) to use it
  • When not to use it
  • When to stop using it