What belongs on a medication list or dose log?
A medication list holds your current treatment instructions. A dose log records individual occasions when you took a medicine, did not take it, or could not confirm what happened. Filling in the scheduled time as though it were the actual time hides a distinction you may want to discuss at an appointment.
The FDA recommends keeping an updated medication list with names, strengths and instructions, including nonprescription medicines, vitamins and supplements. Check the prescription and packaging for the details. Ask a health professional to clarify any instructions you do not understand.
How to fill out the template
- Use one sheet per medicine. Write its full name and formulation so the record remains clear when products have similar names.
- Copy the instructions you were given. Keep the product strength separate from the prescribed amount per dose. This space records instructions; it does not recommend a dose.
- Record the actual event. Keep the scheduled and actual times separate and note the amount taken. Use T for taken, N for not taken and ? for not confirmed, without filling gaps from memory.
- Keep previous instructions identifiable. Start a newly dated sheet when your instructions change. Retain the earlier sheet so you can tell which plan applied at the time.
The template has two sheets: instructions and 8 entries on the first, followed by 14 continuation entries. Use one set per medicine. For a notes app, copy the template and repeat the entry as needed.
Medication record
Use one record per medicine. Copy the instructions you received.
| Date | Scheduled time | Actual time | Amount taken | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
T = taken; N = not taken; ? = not confirmed. An empty cell does not confirm a dose.
This log does not advise dose changes or missed-dose actions.
Dose log continuation
| Date | Scheduled time | Actual time | Amount taken | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
T = taken; N = not taken; ? = not confirmed. An empty cell does not confirm a dose.
This log does not advise dose changes or missed-dose actions.
Review the record before your appointment
Check that the medication list matches your current instructions. Keep questions separate from factual notes, and bring the sheets covering the period you want to discuss. A brief note about a different routine can provide context without claiming that it explains a change you noticed.
If you have a medication question or concern, contact the relevant health professional. You do not need a completed log to ask for help.