Up to half of people who use medicines don’t use them as prescribed according to the Food and Drug Administration. Misuse of medications can be tragic. Missed doses of glaucoma medicine, for example, can lead to optic nerve damage or blindness. Missed doses of heart medicine can lead to cardiac arrest.

What can you do to make it SAFER for you to take medications?

Speak up—Let your doctor and pharmacist know your complete medical history and any allergies or sensitivities you may have.

Ask questions—Click on the links for suggested questions.

Find the facts—Learn as much about your medications as you can. Use your pharmacy, the manufacturer, the library, the bookstore, or the Internet.

Evaluate the benefits and risks—with help from the members of your health care team

Read the label.