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Here are some common questions. Click the blue arrow to read Paul's answers.

Everyone keeps encouraging me to use generic drugs. Are they as safe and effective as brand name drugs?

How much value should I place in prescription drug ads I see on television and in magazines?

Where’s the best place to store all the medications I have? I often keep them in a closet in my bathroom.

I have some medicines that have expired. What’s the best way to dispose of them?

The best method is through a community drug disposal program. Call your city or county household trash and recycling service to ask about drug disposal programs. Also, ask your pharmacist if he or she can dispose of your unused medications.

If a drug take-back program is not available, don’t flush your prescription drugs down the toilet unless directed by the label. Take the drugs out of their original containers and mix them with something undesirable, like cat litter or used coffee grounds. Put this mixture into a sealed container, such as an empty margarine tub, and put the container in your trash.

Always dispose of old or expired medicines, as they may no longer be safe or effective. Check each medicine’s label for its expiration date. If a medicine does not have an expiration date or you can’t read it, ask your pharmacist for help or follow the general rule that most medicines expire one year after you get them.

Is it important to inform my doctor and pharmacist of any herbal supplements or vitamins I am taking?

My son often refuses to take his antibiotics when he’s sick. If I mix his medication into food, will this reduce the drug’s effectiveness?

It seems a number of prescription drugs are now available over-the-counter (OTC). How does the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) decide which drugs will be available OTC, and what precautions should I follow when taking one of these medications?

I keep hearing about extended release versions of prescription drugs. What is the advantage of taking these drugs?

It sounds as though taking an aspirin a day can prevent several serious illnesses, such as heart attacks and some cancers. Can I just start taking aspirin or is it something I should discuss with my doctor?