Overview
Important: Always consult a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or supplement.
Medications and supplements can play an important role in supporting health, managing symptoms, and improving quality of life. Understanding their purpose and proper use helps reduce risk and improve outcomes.
Medications
Purpose
- Treat or manage medical conditions
- Reduce symptoms
- Prevent complications
Administration
- Correct dosage and timing
- Route (oral, injection, topical, etc.)
- Special instructions (with food, avoid activities)
Monitoring
- Side effects
- Effectiveness
- Refill and adherence tracking
Supplements
Supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other products intended to support nutrition or wellness.
Common Types
- Vitamins & minerals
- Herbal products
- Omega-3s and probiotics
Considerations
- Not regulated like prescription medications
- May have strong biological effects
- Quality can vary by brand
Safety & Interactions
Medications and supplements can interact with each other, sometimes reducing effectiveness or causing adverse effects.
- Share a complete list with healthcare providers
- Include vitamins, herbs, and over-the-counter products
- Ask about potential interactions before starting anything new
Management & Organization Tips
- Maintain an up-to-date medication and supplement list
- Use pill organizers or reminders if helpful
- Store medications properly and securely
- Review the list regularly with healthcare providers
