What information must be provided to a patient during medication counseling?

Providing possible side effects and dosage instructions during medication counseling is essential for patient safety and efficacy of the treatment. This information empowers patients to understand how to take their medications correctly, what to expect while using them, and to identify potential adverse reactions early. By knowing the appropriate dosage and possible side effects, patients can engage actively in their own medication management, report issues to healthcare providers in a timely manner, and adhere to their treatment regimens more closely. This proactive approach is critical in preventing complications and ensuring the best outcomes from the prescribed therapy.

While understanding the prescribing doctor's name, insurance coverage details, and the patient's medical history are important in the broader context of healthcare and medication management, they do not directly impact the immediate need for medication counseling that focuses on safe and effective use of the medication itself.