If you’ve ever picked up a prescription and found you’ve received more or less than you expected, you’re not alone. One common cause of confusion is the mismatch between medication pack sizes and calendar-based prescriptions.
Pack Sizes vs. Calendar Months
Most medications are manufactured in fixed pack sizes. For example, 28 tablets in a pack is common. Healthcare providers often prescribe medication for 1, 2, or 3 months at a time, so the maths doesn’t always work out neatly (especially when your prescribed dose is something like two tablets or half a tablet a day). This can result in surpluses or shortages. For example, if you are prescribed a three month supply of a medication to take every other day, your doctor will prescribe two packs of 28 tablets. One pack wouldn’t be enough for three months supply, but two packs is more than enough. Your medication should always be dispensed so that you will have enough medication to last the period you’ve been prescribed for.
Unwanted Medication in Your Prescription?
Sometimes you may see an item on your prescription that you don’t need because you already have a supply at home. Tell your pharmacist not to dispense it, they won’t be offended, in fact, it helps them reduce waste and ensures others can access needed supplies.
You don’t have to receive every item every time. Just let the pharmacy know what you do (and don’t) need.