Finding Reliable Drug Information Online
Answers to the following questions can help you locate and evaluate reliable drug information sites.
1. What is the difference between prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs?
A drug is a substance intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. For information on the main differences between OTC drugs and prescription drugs, refer to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration site.
2. How do you choose an herbal/dietary supplement?
Herbal and dietary supplements do not go through the same rigorous review process that new drugs must undergo before being "approved" by the FDA. Before purchasing, check to see if products have a U.S. Pharmacopeia verified seal on the label. This can indicate the supplement has met certain manufacturing standards. Additional tips can be found at the Mayo Clinic.com site.
3. Where can I find detailed information on prescription medicines and dietary supplements?
MedlinePlus provides reliable information about your prescription and OTC medicines, herbs, and supplements.
4. Which online resource can I use to identify leftover pills found in the bathroom cabinet?
The Drug Identifier from the Medical University of South Carolina can help by searching imprint, shape, and color.
5. Is there an online drug interaction tool available?
Yes, the Aetna® Drug Interaction database for consumers can help determine if the drugs you are taking have any adverse interactions with each other, with OTC drugs, or with your favorite herbals and vitamins. Information provided is only for your education and for you to discuss with your personal healthcare provider.
6. Is purchasing online prescriptions drugs illegal? How can I identify a counterfeit product?
No, purchasing prescription medications online are not illegal. However, educating yourself on do's and don'ts and identifying state-licensed pharmacies located in the United States can assist and protect you from the dangers of counterfeit prescription drugs. Refer to the FDA Buy Online Guide and National Association of Boards of Pharmacy websites for more information and tips.
7. What questions should I ask my physician regarding my medicines?
When being prescribed a new medication it is important to ask your doctor questions about instructions for use, precautions, and side effects. Asking questions up front can help with preventing medication errors. Visit the National Council on Patient Information and Education for more tips.
8. What is the best way to dispose of medications?
It can be tricky to dispose of medications once they have been dispensed. Unfortunately, there are no uniform guidelines available. Flushing medications down the toilet is no longer recommended because of potential for environmental damage. Throwing medicines in the trash causes less pollution. Refer to the SMARxT disposal website for additional information.
9. How do I find out about prescription assistance programs?
The Partnership for Prescription Assistance brings together America's pharmaceutical companies, doctors, other health care providers, patient advocacy organizations and community groups to help qualifying patients who lack prescription coverage get the medicines they need through the public or private program that's right for them. Many will get them free or nearly free. Refer to the website to see if you qualify.
10. How do I choose the right Medicare Part D program?
While cost is important, it should not be the only factor patients consider when selecting a plan. Equally important are which pharmacies participate and what drugs are covered by the plan. For tips and tools for selecting the right program refer to the Medicare website.
11. Need more information?
For more information about medications, see the NC Health Info Drugs & Pharmaceuticals section.
12. Would you like to print this information?
Use the print feature in your browser to obtain a numbered list of hyperlinks that correspond to the hyperlinked text.
Page authored by Jennifer Lazo, Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center and Christie Silbajoris, Health Sciences Library at UNC-Chapel Hill.