I have heard people talk about "brown bagging" their medications, what does that mean?

"Brown bagging" literally means putting all your medications in a brown paper bag and taking them to your doctor or pharmacist. Are you taking medications prescribed by more than one doctor? Are you using any over-the-counter drugs? Are you taking any vitamins and supplements? You are the only person who knows everything you are taking. But, do you know if it is safe to be taking all these medications? The only way to find out is to ask your health care provider or pharmacist. Don't assume your health care providers know everything you are using. So, put all your medications in a brown bag and take them with you the next time you see your health care provider or pharmacist. Remember to include medications prescribed by all your health care providers, your over-the-counter drugs and any supplements and vitamins you are taking.

Gail Carlson, MPH Ph.D., Continuing Medical Education, School of Medicine, 
University of Missouri-Columbia