This spring and summer, I've had the opportunity to present Is It My Medicine? to community groups throughout the Houston area.

While every audience is different, one thing has stood out to me: people need to ask questions about their medications. But sometimes, they just aren't sure which questions to ask.

Whether you're reviewing your own medications or helping a loved one, these five questions can help start meaningful conversations with your pharmacist or healthcare provider.

1. Why am I taking this medication?

It may sound like a simple question, but it's one of the most important. (And I often find that this is a question that is left unanswered after a doctor’s visit or trip to the pharmacy!)

Understanding what each medication is treating can help you recognize whether it's meeting its intended goal and why it's an important part of your care. Knowing the "why" also makes it easier to stay engaged in your treatment plan and ask informed questions if something changes.

2. Is this medication still right for me?

Our health changes over time.

A medication that made perfect sense five or ten years ago may deserve another look today because of a new diagnosis, changes in kidney function, new medications, or even changes in your personal goals.

Medication reviews aren't just about stopping medications. They're about making sure each medication continues to have a purpose.

3. Could this medication be causing what I'm feeling?

Many people assume symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, constipation, dry mouth, poor sleep, or changes in memory are simply part of getting older.

Sometimes they are. Sometimes they're related to a medication.

If you've noticed a new symptom, don't assume you just have to live with it. Bring it up with your healthcare team. A conversation may uncover an opportunity to improve how you feel.

4. Is there anything I shouldn't take with this medication?

Prescription medications are only part of the picture. Over-the-counter medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, and even certain foods or alcohol can affect how medications work.

Before starting something new, it's worth asking your pharmacist if there are any interactions you should know about.

It's a simple question that can help prevent bigger problems later.

5. Does this medication still fit what matters most to me?

This may be my favorite question of all. Medications should support the life you want to live.

If your goal is staying independent, traveling, gardening, keeping up with your grandchildren, or simply feeling your best each day, your medication plan should help you get there whenever possible.

That doesn't always mean taking fewer medications. It means making sure your treatment plan aligns with your health goals, preferences, and what matters most to you.

You don't need to have all the answers before talking with your healthcare team. Sometimes the best place to start is simply with the right question.

Meaningful conversations lead to better understanding. Better understanding leads to more confident decisions. These confident decisions help ensure your medications continue to support your health and the life you want to live.

At Wright Geriatric Consulting, we believe medication conversations should be personalized, practical, and centered on what matters most to you. If this post left you wondering about your medications, contact us to learn how we can support you.

With care,
Abigail Wright, BCGP BCPS CDP PharmD MS FASCP
Founder, Wright Geriatric Consulting