What should I do if I forget to take my medication?
It is important for your health and safety to take your medications as prescribed. But sometimes it can be easy to forget to take your medication on time. This can be especially true if you take multiple medications.
If you forget to take your medication, keep in mind that there is not a one-size-fits-all answer for what to do. Every drug is different. What you should do will depend on the medication.
First, read the drug education literature that was provided with your medication. This information is part of the papers you receive when you fill a prescription. If your medication is delivered, it may be in your delivery box. If you get your medication filled at a local pharmacy, it may be stapled to your bag. (If you have opted out of receiving this information from your pharmacy, you may have to request a copy.) Most of the time this literature will include instructions on what to do if you forget to take your medication.
If you do not have the drug education literature or it does not have instructions for what to do, don’t worry! You can also check the drug manufacturer’s website for this information or request the information from your pharmacy. (If you are an ExactCare patient, you can use our online patient portal, MyECP, to access this information!)
Be careful when looking up this information online. There may be many different websites that offer advice on what to do. The drug manufacturer or a licensed pharmacy will be the most reliable sources.
Here are some important things to keep in mind if you forget to take your medication:
- Sometimes, you may forget to take a medication that you are supposed to take multiple times a day. If this happens, it is best to call your doctor or pharmacist for advice on what to do.
- Do not take a double dose of your medication to make up for the missed dose. This is very important. Doubling your medication can put your health at risk. It can cause serious, life-threatening side effects.
- One exception to this rule is birth control. Missing your daily dose can lead to unwanted pregnancy. If you forget to take your birth control, you may be able to take two pills at your usual time. You should check with your doctor first.
- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist ahead of time about each of your medications. Ask them what to do if you forget to take one. This will help you know how to handle the situation if it happens.
If you forget to take your medication, don’t get discouraged. You can get back on track! If you find yourself regularly forgetting to take your medication, talk to your pharmacist or doctor for advice on how to overcome these challenges.
