If you are like most Americans you visit your local pharmacy (drug store) at least once a week. Whether you are or are not having a prescription filled, that visit is often an important but unappreciated step in maintaining your health. You now have a wide array of over-the-counter medications to choose from including many that were previously available only after a visit or phone call to your health-care provider.

This open access to medications provides you with the ability to rapidly self-medicate a variety of common ailments. But this "freedom" also exposes you to potential harm if you don't use these medications correctly. Here are some caveats:

Before you take any medication, including herbals and dietary supplements, read the label. Make certain that you know what the medication is used for, what the dose is, what warnings exist and what side effects you may experience.

If you have any questions, speak with the pharmacist. Pharmacists are trained in drug therapy issues and can advise you on what over-the-counter medications may be best for you. Most also have access to sophisticated computer software that can record your prescription history and predict interactions but they are only useful if you get all your prescriptions at one pharmacy. Whether you are new to a retail venue or have a long-time relationship with your pharmacist, be sure that list is updated.

Be sure to report a history of chronic medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes to your pharmacist. There are many medications that can't be used by people with chronic disease. If you've reported this history before your prescription is filled someone can intercede if warnings pop up when they enter a new prescription. The same holds true if you have a medication or food allergy. Additionally, be sure to report the over-the-counter, herbals and dietary supplements as these can also interact with prescriptions.

Although I have a pharmacy degree, twenty five years ago I chose to trade my white coat for a pair of athletic shoes to teach fitness then a nice suit to lecture about weight management and women's health. The pharmacy field has come a long way since I graduated so I am grateful to all those computer "geeks" whose genius allow my colleagues to remain an important interface between your doctor and you. Next time you stop in your pharmacy, say hello and "thanks" to those folks behind the counter.

P. S. For everyone who wants an update re my colonoscopy and endoscopy experience, it was a snap. These procedures (and the preparation for them) are now painless. The worse part of the experience for me was being hungry and thirsty after a day of liquids only and four hours prior to the exam when I couldn't eat or drink anything at all. In short, don't ignore this.