Drug Information from A-Z

Millions of people take some sort of supplement every day, whether it's a prescription drug, an over-the-counter medication, or an herbal nutrition supplement. But many people don't have comprehensive drug information about the pills or supplements they are taking, including drug side effects and interactions.

Here are two drug information sites I especially like:

1. About.com Drug Finder is the most comprehensive and easy-to-use drug information site I've seen. Drug Finder let's you search for prescription and over-the-counter medications, plus vitamins and herbal supplements. If you can't remember the full name, simple type in a partial name or the first letter to see a list.

   Search results will tell you:

   • What the drug is and what it's prescribed for
   • Which medical conditions you should tell your doctor about if he or she prescribes the drug for you
   • How the drug is taken, and what to do if you miss a dose
   • Possible side effects, and what to look for when you take the drug
   • Handling and storage information for the drug

   Another great feature of Drug Finder is the Drug IDentifier, which helps you identify any stray pills that escaped from their original container.

2. The Mayo Clinic drug information guide tracks scientific evidence to provide up-to-date drug information, including the effectiveness, safety, and side effects of the drugs and herbal nutrition supplements you may be taking.