A New Beginning

Postpartum Medications

MEDICATIONS WHEN YOU ARE DISCHARGED

Your physician will review all your medications — those you took before the birth and those prescribed after — to prevent any negative drug interactions. Your nurse will also review each of the prescribed medications you will be taking at home and give you written instructions on their use. Make sure you ask any questions you have and discuss any concerns.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES • Make sure all your health care providers know about every medication you are taking. This includes prescription and over-the counter medicines and dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbs. • Make sure your health care providers know about any allergies and adverse reactions you have had to medicines. • Ask for clarification if you can’t read the physician’s handwriting on any prescription. • Ask your health care provider to explain your home treatment. Your obstetrical provider will prescribe all medications based on your medical history, if you have a history of any drug allergies or reactions, your type of delivery, and clinical condition. Your nurse will review all these medications with you. Review the medication table on page 14 and ask questions about each medication prescribed. Your nurse can provide more detailed written information about your medications. Let your nurse know anytime you have concerns, questions, or are unsure about your medications. It is important that you understand your medications and are comfortable taking them. MEDICATIONS WHILE IN THE HOSPITAL

Questions to ask before taking a new medication

• What is the name of the medicine and what is it for? • How and when do I take it? • How long do I take it? • Will this work safely with other medicines I’m taking? • Is it safe for me to take this if I’m breastfeeding? • What food, drinks, activities, and dietary supplements should I avoid while taking it? • When should I expect this medicine to begin to work, and how will I know if it is working? • Are there any side effects, what are they, and what do I do if they occur? • What symptoms do I need to be sure to report? • What should I do if I miss a dose? • What is the most important thing I should know about this medication? • Where can I get written information about this medication?

MEDICATIONS BROUGHT IN FROM HOME

The use of any home medications (prescribed, over the-counter, herbs, or vitamins) is discouraged during your hospital stay. This policy helps decrease the risk of any prescription and drug-to-drug interactions. Please have your support person take home any medications you brought to the hospital.

DO NOT TAKE a new medicine until...

• You have ALL your questions answered • You have discussed your history of allergies and medication side-effects

12 A New Beginning