Why you should know your tablets when you go to the doctor
Hospital, GP and pharmacy computers are not usually linked.
This is why the doctor may not know what tablets you are taking, or if there have been any changes since you last saw them. It’s a good idea to take them with you, write a list or have it saved on your phone. This applies to face-to-face and virtual appointments.
Also the very good NHS App may have a list of your tablets on them. It can be used for this purpose and repeat prescribing as well as a COVID-19 vaccine passport.
It is also a good idea to keep a list of medications you have taken in the past, especially those that you’ve had problems with, so a new doctor will know to avoid them.
Don’t forget to mention any medicines or supplements that you may be buying ‘over the counter’ in pharmacies, supermarkets or other shops (i.e. without a prescription); as these could affect the other medicines.
Remember to tell your GP or pharmacist if you are no longer taking a medicine – this helps to make sure that everyone is up to date. Your tablet list needs will need updating. It helps to order only what you need.
Ask for a review by a clinical pharmacist at your GPs
Many GPs now have a clinical pharmacist attached to them. You can ask to see them to go through your tablets if you are not sure what to do.
Knowing your tablets is so important – it helps you to take control of your care and get the best from your doctor. Unfortunately, due to many different brands and manufacturers, we will not know what tablet you are taking from a description alone. You and we must ensure that the right name is used to prevent any harm or mistakes.
Yes it is confusing that tablets have two names, the (trade) name (i.e. one on box) and the actual (generic, ‘doctors’ name) – it is like ‘Cadbury’s chocolate’.
Other resource
MyHSN has a related article on whether hospitals and GPs tell each other if they start (or change the dose of) a tablet.
