The best way to track your medications and help your doctor and pharmacist have the most current information about you is to create a Personal Medication Record.

See also: Making a personal medication record.

While your doctor may have a list of your medications in his or her files, you might be seeing more than one doctor. To reduce your medication risks, bring an updated Personal Medication Record to all of your medical appointments.

AARP's Personal Medication Record form, which is available in both English and Spanish, allows you to list all the medicines you take, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements.

Step 1: Create your Personal Medical Record

• Download a MS Word document to complete electronically and store on your computer or a USB flash drive, which can be plugged into any computer with a USB port.

• Print a vertical or horizontal (PDF) form in English to complete by hand.
  

• Print a (PDF) form in Spanish to complete by hand.

• Call 1-888-OUR-AARP (1-888-687-2277) to request a Personal Medication Record. For English, provide stock number D18358. For Spanish, use stock number D18396.

Step 2: Make copies of your Personal Medication Record

• Provide your doctor, pharmacist, and a friend or family member with an updated copy of your medication record.

• Carry your record with you and keep a copy at home.

Step 3: Keep your Personal Medication Record updated

• Make a note if you are starting or stopping any medications.

• Record any drug allergies, side effects, or sensitivities you have.