n 1998, nearly 2.8 billion prescriptions were dispensed and $26 billion in over-the-counter medicines were sold at retail pharmacies. There's a good chance several of those medications were for you or your family. That's why a good pharmacist is one of the most important players on your healthcare team. This "ball carrier" passes on critical information about your medications that can make a big difference in your health. When you fill a prescription or buy an over-the-counter drug, ask your pharmacist to review all of your medications to make sure you won't have an adverse drug reaction. It's a good idea to go to the same drug store every time so your complete medicine history will be on file there. Following is a list of additional information your pharmacist can provide you. The name of your medicine. If there are any questions about a new prescription such as the correct name of the drug, your pharmacist will call your doctor to confirm it. Critical warnings about your medicine. A list of drugs, food and activities to avoid with this medicine. A list of possible adverse reactions to the medicine and what to do if you experience any. When the medicine shouldn't be used, such as if you're pregnant or taking other medicine. How to take the medicine properly. This includes how much to take, when to take it, what to do if you miss a dose or accidently take too much. It also includes information about whether it should be taken with food -- if so, whether before, during or after a meal. How to properly store your medicine. Whether it should be stored at room temperature or refrigerated. How long the medicine will be effective. What to do in case of an overdose. (Call your poison control center rather than your pharmacist in an emergency.) Note: If what your pharmacist tells you doesn't match what your doctor says or if it raises a question about your medicine, call your doctor. After all, your doctor has your medical history or knows your current health status. © Your HealthStyle, 1999.