What should a pharmacist review when filling a prescription?

When filling a prescription, it is crucial for a pharmacist to review the patient's medical history and current medications. This comprehensive assessment allows the pharmacist to identify any potential drug interactions, contraindications, or allergies that may adversely affect the patient’s health. Understanding a patient's medical history provides insight into their overall health conditions and treatments, which is essential in ensuring the safe and effective use of medications.

A pharmacist must also consider the current medications a patient is taking to ensure that the prescribed drug is appropriate and does not negatively interact with other substances. By evaluating both the medical history and current medications, the pharmacist plays a vital role in patient safety and the effectiveness of drug therapy. This practice aligns with the standards of pharmaceutical care, which emphasize the pharmacist's responsibilities in managing medication therapy and promoting optimal health outcomes for patients.