People are often confused about their medications after going home from the hospital – they’re not sure why they’re taking certain medications, what the doses are, or when they should take them. If you get home and find that you are confused about the medicines you were told to take, call your regular doctor as soon as possible to ask questions.  Many patients have harmful side effects from taking the wrong medications or taking the right medications the wrong way. This can lead to patients coming back to the emergency room. 

Even if you have a follow up visit scheduled, it’s better to call and get your questions answered rather than to wait for an appointment. If you can’t get in touch with your doctor, try your pharmacist or call the number on your discharge instructions from the hospital.

It’s a good idea to go over your medications with your medical team before you leave the hospital. Ask why you are taking each medication, how much to take, and when to take it.  And remember if you are confused when you get home, call your doctor, your pharmacist, or the hospital.

Don’t wait or it might be too late!