Codes, drug caution

Abbreviations on medications that indicate caution.

While not a part of the historical heritage of ancient prescription abbreviations, drug caution codes provide very valuable warnings.</P> They include both universal and specific caution codes: > >Universal caution codes: > >D = drowsiness >H = habitforming >I = interaction >X = SOS (contains a substance such as acetaminophen that could cause problems -- consult your pharmacist) </LI></UL> >Special caution codes > >ASA = contains acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin) >C = caution >G = glaucoma >S = diabetes </LI></UL></LI></UL> These special caution codes are intended to be warnings for patients with specific medical conditions.

For example, a person with hypertension might see the generic 'C' code on a prescription bottle or vial if the medication might raise his or her blood pressure.

If you see one of the universal or special caution codes on a prescription, talk to your pharmacist about it before using the medicine.

In the United States and some other countries, a system of stickers with pictographs is also used to warn of side effects such as drowsiness.