What to include in a medication list
FDA says a list should cover each medicine's name and strength, what you take it for, and when, how and how much you take. It should also have your emergency contacts and allergies.1
| Field | Example |
|---|---|
| Name | Sertraline |
| Dose | 50 mg |
| When and how you take it | Once a day, with food |
| What it's for | Depression |
| Who prescribed it | Dr. Patel |
| Since | March 2026 |
Printable medication list (PDF)
Prefer to write it by hand? The blank list and wallet card fit on one page, and you don't need to give an email.
How to keep your list useful
- Update it when something changes. FDA gives examples: a new prescription, a different dose, or a medication you stopped.1
- Keep a copy with you. FDA suggests options such as a photo on your phone.1
- Bring it to every appointment. It's important to tell your provider about everything you take, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal remedies, vitamins and supplements.2
Taking an antidepressant with other medications
Antidepressants are often combined with other medications on purpose, but some combinations raise the risk of serotonin syndrome or bleeding.
Prescribers add a second medication when one is not enough, or to help with sleep or anxiety. They weigh the benefit against the extra risk.
Serotonin syndrome usually appears within hours of starting a medication or raising a dose. Mild signs include restlessness, sweating, shivering, diarrhea, a fast heartbeat and twitching muscles. High fever, rigid muscles, confusion or seizures need emergency care.
Combinations that need care include:
- two antidepressants together
- some migraine and pain medications, such as tramadol
- St. John's wort, and recreational drugs such as MDMA
- anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as ibuprofen and aspirin, which can raise the risk of bleeding
Tell your prescriber and pharmacist about everything you take, including supplements. Starting or stopping one of them can change how the others work.
FAQ
What should be on a medication list?
Each medication's name and dose, when and how you take it and what it's for, plus your allergies and emergency contacts. Include vitamins, supplements and over-the-counter products.
Is there a free printable medication list?
Yes. The PDF on this page is free, needs no email and includes a wallet card.
Can I edit my list later?
Yes. It stays in this browser, so come back to this page, change what you need and download it again. You can also download a copy to restore it on another device.
Where is my list stored?
In this browser, on this device. We don't receive what you type, and there's no account. Clearing your browser data deletes it, and Safari can clear it after about 7 days without a visit, so download a copy now and then.
Can I keep a list for someone else?
Yes. Put their name at the top. If you look after more than one person, download and keep one list for each.
Sources
More free trackers and templates
- Medication schedule: Set what you take and when. Get a one-page weekly chart with a box for every dose.
- Psychiatrist appointment sheet: Put what you want to say and ask on one page, so nothing gets lost in the room.
- See all trackers and templates