What happens after you take a medication
After you take a medication, your body absorbs it. Pills and capsules are often absorbed through the stomach or small intestine and enter the bloodstream. The medication then travels to where it works. Your body gradually breaks it down and clears it, often through the liver and kidneys.
Because the body clears medication over time, many prescriptions are taken on a schedule. Each dose helps maintain an amount of medication in the body suited to that treatment.
Why dosing schedules matter
A schedule such as once a day, twice a day, or with food is chosen for a reason. Taking more or less than directed can affect how well a medication works and may increase side effects.
- When possible, take a medication at about the same time each day if that is what the label or prescriber recommends.
- If the label says to take it with food, follow that direction.
- If you miss a dose, check the medication instructions or ask a pharmacist. The right next step differs by medication; do not automatically take an extra dose.
Brand name and generic medicines
An FDA-approved generic medicine has the same active ingredient, strength, and dosage form as its FDA-approved brand-name counterpart and must meet FDA requirements for approval. Approved generics are expected to work in the same way and provide the same clinical benefit as the brand-name medicine.
This FDA equivalence applies to FDA-approved generic drugs only. Compounded drugs are not FDA-approved and are not evaluated by the FDA as equivalent generic versions of brand-name drugs.
Storage basics
- Many medications are stored at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Follow the storage directions on your label.
- Some medications need refrigeration. If yours does, follow its label and package directions.
- Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.
Questions? Ask a pharmacist
Our pharmacy team can help with questions about how to take a medication, what to avoid, or what a label means. Call (317) 293-1700.