Taking medicines is supposed to protect us from disease and illness. But if you don’t take your medicines properly, you could end up causing yourself more harm than good.

The first step to taking medicines safely is to research the medication you are taking. Find out what it does. Find out the proper dosages for you. If you can’t find this information on your own, check with your doctor.

Taking medicines properly will help you get the full benefits from them. Remember, taking medicines incorrectly may actually worsen your condition.

Before taking any medicines, be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist several key questions. Ask whether the medicine you are taking is a brand-name version or a generic. Make sure you know exactly what the medicine is supposed to do. Ask if there is any written information about the medicine and how it works.

Make sure you are clear on all dosage questions, too. If you aren’t, be sure to ask your doctor when you should be taking the medication, and for how long. Also, investigate the types of food, drink or other medications that you shouldn’t mix with your medicine.

It’s important to learn as much about the side effects of a medication, too. Check with your doctor about possible side effects and what steps you should take if these side effects do occur.

Medicines are designed to help. But they can only do this if they are taken properly. That’s why smart patients ask the important questions before taking their medicines.