When a drug company discovers a new drug, they often patent this new drug so that no other company can produce the same drug. This is called a brand name drug. Once this patent expires, other drug companies can make the generic drug, which has the same active ingredients as the brand name drug.

The labels on your prescription medications can be confusing. Many people don't understand parts of the written instructions that come with their medicine, so they may not take it the right way.  Follow these tips next time you pick up your medication from the pharmacy to be sure you know how to take your medicine the right way:

Where can I get a prescription?

• In the state of New York a prescription can be written by a licensed doctor, registered nurse practitioner, registered certified physician assistant, dentist, podiatrist (foot doctor), veterinarian (pet doctor), and optometrist (eye doctor).
  • Some of these health professionals can write a prescription for a limited number of drugs.

A prescription is a medical order written by your health care provider for a certain medication. Below is an example of a prescription for a medication and an explanation of everything written on the prescription.

1.      The doctor's name and/or name of practice

Prescription drugs can be controlled or non-controlled.

What makes a drug non-controlled?

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Pharmacy Fridays!

Understanding the direction on a prescription can sometimes be confusing. While pharmacists are always available to answer your questions, the table below will help you understand how to follow the directions for how often you need to take your medications.

Dr. McGregor, MD, discusses how people of faith can work with their doctors to get treatment that goes along with their beliefs.

Q: How can medicine and faith work together to heal patients?