Free Medication Log: Make a Printable Sheet or PDF

How to use the log

1. Pick a daily, weekly or monthly sheet.
2. Copy each medicine's name, strength and directions from the label. The tool never suggests a dose or time.
3. Add what the pill looks like while it's still in its labeled bottle.
4. Print it, or save it as a PDF, then keep it with your medicines.
5. Write your initials in the box right after each dose.

What goes on a medication log

The FDA says a medication list should have your emergency contacts and allergies, plus the name and strength of each medicine, what you take it for, and when, how and how much you take. AHRQ, the U.S. health research agency, adds a useful tip: write both the brand and generic names if your medicine has both.

This sheet adds two things those lists leave out: a box for each dose, and a space for the pill's color, shape and imprint. That description helps when a refill looks different or a pill ends up loose. Our guide on how to keep a medication log covers what to record and how to keep it up to date.

Keep it current

AHRQ says to update your list every time you start, stop or change a medicine, then throw out the old copy. MedlinePlus suggests keeping a copy in your wallet and one at home, and giving one to all your providers. Don't leave out over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements or herbal products. They count too.

If you're not sure when each dose should fall, our medication schedule maker works out the times, and you can copy them onto this log.

If a dose looks wrong or got doubled

A log can show that a dose was taken twice, but it can't tell you if that's dangerous. If someone took too much or the wrong medicine, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 in the U.S. If they collapse, have a seizure, have trouble breathing or can't be woken, call 911.