SC Wisconsin News

Prescription labels often contain essential information that patients should be aware of to ensure timely access to their medications. One common point of confusion for many is understanding the difference between a refill and a renewal.

In simple terms, a refill indicates that a healthcare provider has already authorized the pharmacy to dispense more of the medication, typically for a specific number of fills. When these refills are exhausted, patients require a renewal, meaning a new prescription must be issued by their provider before the pharmacy can supply more medication.

Olivia Bishop, an Aspirus Pharmacy Resident, notes that some patients may unexpectedly find themselves out of refills when attempting to reorder. She advises checking the number of remaining refills before supplies run low: “It’s a good idea to check how many refills you have left before running low so you have time to follow up if needed.”

Another critical detail on prescription labels is the expiration date. Bishop emphasizes its importance: “The expiration date isn’t just a formality. It helps ensure the medication is still working as intended.” Beyond this date, the medication's effectiveness may diminish.

Labels may also describe the pill's physical characteristics, such as shape, size, or color. This can be particularly useful if there are changes in appearance due to variations from different manufacturers. Bishop advises contacting pharmacists or providers if discrepancies arise: “If something looks unfamiliar or doesn’t match what you’ve had before, contact your pharmacist or provider.”

Aspirus Health recommends that patients review their prescription labels each time they collect medications. Being mindful of details like refill status and expiration dates can help prevent delays and maintain effective care management.