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What if I miss a dose of my medication?

By Melody L. Berg PharmD, BCPS, MPH

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on March 17, 2025.

Millions of Americans take medications every day, and many take more than one medication multiple times daily, making it difficult to remember what to take and when to take it. Medicines are essential because they help cure, halt, or prevent diseases as well as ease symptoms of an illness. However, they cannot do their job if not taken regularly.

What should you do if you miss a dose?

Tips to help you remember to take your medications:

Taking your medications regularly on schedule is important to making sure the medications are safe and most effective for you. However, it can sometimes be hard to remember to take them. Tips and ideas on how to remember to take your medications can be found here.

Ways to ensure your medications are right for you:

Summary

Many factors can contribute to missed doses, and it is essential to speak with your healthcare provider regarding any barriers you may have prevented you from taking your medications.

See also:

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AHFS® Patient Medication Information is used with permission. ©2025, the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. (ASHP). The ASHP Data is a part of the AHFS Drug Information®️; ASHP is not responsible for the accuracy of transpositions from the original context.