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How do you read a drug label?

How do you read a drug label?

How to Read a ‘Drug Facts’ Label

  1. Active ingredients (A) This section tells you the part of the medicine that makes it work.
  2. Purpose (B) This section is found next to the Active ingredient section.
  3. Uses (C)
  4. Warnings (D)
  5. Directions (E)
  6. Other information (F)
  7. Inactive ingredients (G)

What information is on a drug label?

All prescription medicine containers include information on the label including the patient’s name, the name of the medicine, dosage and instructions on how often to take the medicine. More detailed printed information about the medication is usually provided by the pharmacy when prescription medicine is dispensed.

What are the 7 parts of a drug label?

Drug labels include instructions, ingredients, and a lot more information. Here’s what you need to know from a healthcare investor’s standpoint.

  • Generic name.
  • Year of first FDA approval.
  • Severe “black box” warnings.
  • List of approved indications.
  • Dosage details.
  • Contraindications.
  • Less severe warnings.

How do you read a OTC drug label?

The Over-the-Counter Medicine Label: Take a Look

  1. Active Ingredient. Therapeutic substance in product; amount of active ingredient per unit.
  2. Uses. Symptoms or diseases the product will treat or prevent.
  3. Warnings.
  4. Inactive Ingredients.
  5. Purpose.
  6. Directions.
  7. Other Information.

What are the 5 parts of the Drug Facts label?

OTC Drug Facts Label

  • The product’s active ingredients, including the amount in each dosage unit.
  • The purpose of the product.
  • The uses (indications) for the product.
  • Specific warnings, including when the product should not be used under any circumstances, and when it is appropriate to consult with a doctor or pharmacist.

What are two differences between prescription and OTC drugs?

Here are some of the other key differences between prescription and OTC drugs: Prescription medications are specially tailored for use by a specific person for a specific use. OTC medications are considered safe for just about everyone and may have a variety of intended purposes.

When is it necessary to read a drug label?

Consumers should always read drug labels to make sure they are taking a medication correctly and safely as well as to learn about possible side effects. Unfortunately, these labels can be challenging for the average person to understand.