- Introduction
- Tests
- Imaging
- Prescription drugs
- Procedures
- Buying and using drugs
- Spanish language materials
- Campaign promotions
- Choosing Wisely society lists
Materials to share with your patients
Here are more than 100 brochures, many of them offered in plain English and Spanish, to help support discussions between you and your patients. They are primarily from the Choosing Wisely, High Value Care and Best Buy Drugs campaigns.
You can download these PDFs, print them, or distribute them electronically. All we ask is that you not alter their contents.
We would appreciate your feedback about these materials, how widely you’ve distributed them, and how well they enhance doctor-patient communication.
Patient information about medical tests
- If you don’t have symptoms or a medical evaluation that points to allergy, think twice about skin or blood tests.
- Plain English: Allergy Tests
- Spanish: Pruebas para Alergias
- If you're having memory problems, your doctor should look for other causes before ordering a brain scan.
- Plain English: Alzheimer’s Disease Testing (SNMMI)
- Spanish: Pruebas para la enfermedad de Alzheimer
- Blood tests for thrombophilia often are not needed, even if you have had a pregnancy problem.
- Plain English: Blood Tests for Miscarriage Risk (SMFM)
- Spanish: Pruebas de sangre para mostrar el riesgo de un aborto espontáneo
- In the hospital, if your blood test results stay the same after a day or two, you may not need them again.
- Plain English: Blood Tests in the Hospital (SHM)
- Spanish: Pruebas de sangre cuando usted está en el hospital
- Some tests, treatments, and procedures are not only unnecessary, they can even prove harmful.
- English: Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO)
- When do you need an echocardiogram?
- Plain English: Echocardiograms for Valve Disease (ACC)
- Spanish: Ecocardiografía para valvulopatías cardíacas
- EKGs or exercise stress tests usually aren't necessary for people without symptoms.
- Plain English: EKGs and Exercise Stress Tests
- Spanish: Los electrocardiogramas (ECG) (EKG) y las pruebas de esfuerzo durante el ejercicio
- You probably don't need that yearly checkup. In fact, it can do more harm than good.
- Plain English: Health Checkups (SGIM)
- Spanish: Exámenes médicos
- When do cancer experts recommend imaging tests and tumor marker tests?
- Plain English: Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO)
- Spanish: Pruebas de marcadores tumorales y de imágenes para el cáncer de seno
- Most healthy people don't need blood or urine tests done before surgery, especially low-risk surgery. Here's why.
- Plain English: Lab Tests Before Surgery (ASCP)
- Spanish: Pruebas de laboratorio antes de una cirugía
- There are two blood tests for Lyme disease, but usually you don't need them. Here's why.
- Plain English: Lyme Disease Tests (ACR)
- Spanish: Pruebas para la Enfermedad de Lyme
- Sometimes a genetic test is not the best way to find an inherited condition or disease risk.
- Plain English: Making Smart Decisions About Genetic Testing (ACMG)
- Spanish: Cómo tomar decisiones inteligentes sobre las pruebas genéticas
- Most people don't need to have their blood tested or their heart checked before they have eye surgery. Here's why.
- Plain English: Medical Tests Before Eye Surgery
- Spanish: Pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía de ojo
- Often, pre-operative tests are not necessary. It is not a good idea to get them just because you’re having surgery.
- Plain English: Medical Tests Before Surgery - When You Need Them, and When You Don't
- Spanish: Pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía
- If the symptoms are severe or continue for a while, you may need an electrodiagnostic test.
- Plain English: Neck and Back Pain: When You Need Tests (AANEM)
- Spanish: Dolor de cuello y espalda
- Many teenage girls and some women have the test when they don’t need it. Here’s why.
- Plain English: Pap Tests
- Spanish: Pruebas de Papanicolaou
- The PSA screening test is widely used, but often is not needed.
- Plain English: PSA Test for Prostate Cancer (AAFP)
- Spanish: La prueba de sangre PSA para detectar cáncer de próstata
- The PSA test is the only available screening test for prostate cancer, but it can have serious risks.
- Plain English: PSA Tests for Prostate Cancer (AUA)
- Spanish: Las pruebas de sangre del antígeno prostático específico o PSA para el cáncer de próstata
- Ultrasound and the CA-125 blood test are not useful for screening low-risk women for ovarian cancer.
- Plain English: Screening Tests for Ovarian Cancer (SGO)
- Spanish: Exámenes de detección para el cáncer de ovario
- It’s important to know which tests you need, and how often you need them.
- Plain English: Screening Tests: When You Need Them, When You Don't
- Spanish: Pruebas de detección
- Many people who need the test don’t receive it.
- Plain English: Spirometry for Asthma (AAAAI)
- Stress tests usually aren’t helpful after a stent procedure, unless you have symptoms of heart disease.
- Plain English: Stress Tests After a Stent Procedure (SCAI)
- Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo después de un procedimiento de endoprótesis o colocación de stent
- If you’re having surgery, you will probably not need a heart stress test beforehand if you are healthy, active, and feeling well, or if you’re having minor surgery.
- Plain English: Stress Tests Before Surgery
- Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo del corazón antes de una cirugía
- If you’re at low risk for having a heart problem, even if you have symptoms, you usually don’t need this imaging test.
- English: Stress Tests for Chest Pain (ASNC)
- Unless you're experiencing symptoms, this test usually isn't helpful in the first few years after heart bypass surgery or a stent procedure.
- Plain English: Testing after heart procedures
- Spanish: Pruebas después de procedimientos cardíacos
- Before heart surgery, you probably don't need a breathing test or carotid ultrasound test, unless you have breathing problems or symptoms.
- Plain English: Tests Before Heart Surgery (STS)
- Spanish: Pruebas antes de una cirugía del corazón
- Older adults are often tested for UTIs. But if you don’t have symptoms, the tests are not very useful.
- Plain English: Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS, AMDA)
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para infecciones de las vías urinarias (UTI) en personas mayores
- Doctors often order a blood test to measure your vitamin D, but the results are unlikely to change their advice.
- Plain English: Vitamin D Tests
- Spanish: Pruebas de Vitamina D
Allergy Tests (AAAAI) →
Alzheimer’s Disease Testing (SNMMI) →
Blood Tests for Miscarriage Risk (SMFM) →
Blood Tests in the Hospital (SHM) →
Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO) →
Echocardiograms for Valve Disease (ACC) →
EKGs and Exercise Stress Tests (AAFP) →
Health Checkups (SGIM) →
Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO) →
Lab Tests Before Surgery (ASCP) →
Lyme Disease Tests (ACR) →
Making Smart Decisions About Genetic Testing (ACMG) →
Medical Tests Before Eye Surgery (AAO) →
Medical Tests Before Surgery →
Neck and Back Pain: When You Need Tests (AANEM) →
Pap Tests (AAFP) →
PSA Test for Prostate Cancer (AAFP) →
PSA Tests for Prostate Cancer (AUA) →
Screening Tests for Ovarian Cancer (SGO) →
Screening Tests: When You Need Them, When You Don’t →
Spirometry for Asthma (AAAAI) →
Stress Tests After a Stent Procedure (SCAI) →
Stress Tests Before Surgery (SVM) →
Stress Tests for Chest Pain (ASNC) →
Testing After Heart Procedures (ASNC) →
Tests Before Heart Surgery (STS) →
Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS, AMDA) →
Vitamin D Tests (ASCP) →
Patient information about imaging tests
- If you’re not at higher risk for weak bones, you should think twice about the bone-density test. Here’s why.
- Plain English: Bone-Density Tests
- Spanish: Pruebas de Densidad de los Huesos
- Brain scans are usually not helpful for a concussion.
- Plain English: Brain Scans for Head Injuries
- Spanish: Las tomografías del cerebro para las lesiones de la cabeza
- In some cases, especially in healthy people without chest pain, you should be cautious about the tests.
- English: Cardiac Imaging Stress Tests(ASNC)
- If you don’t have signs or symptoms of heart or lung disease, think twice about having a pre-operative X-ray.
- Plain English: Chest X-rays Before Surgery
- Spanish: Radiografía del tórax antes de una cirugía
- Video: Do You Need a Chest X-ray Before Surgery?
- Do you need a screening test for clogged neck arteries?
- Plain English: Clogged Neck Arteries (AAFP)
- Spanish: Arterias del cuello obstruidas
- CMR is an imaging test for heart disease. But it may not be the best test for you.
- Plain English: CMR Tests for Chest Pain and Cardiac Screening (SCMR)
- Spanish: Pruebas de CMR para el dolor de pecho y examen cardíaco
- For children with head injuries, a CT scan often is not needed.
- Plain English: CT Scans for Children With Head Injuries (AAP)
- Spanish: Tomografías (CT scans) para niños con lesiones en la cabeza
- They may not be needed as often as you think.
- Plain English: CT Scans in the Emergency Department
- Plain English: CT Scans in the Emergency Department (for printer)
- The CT scan, used to look for early signs of lung cancer, is not useful for many smokers.
- Plain English: CT Scans to Find Lung Cancer in Smokers (CHEST/ATS)
- Spanish: Tomografías (CT scans) para detectar cáncer de pulmón en fumadores
- If you’re having surgery, you may wonder if you need an echocardiogram first.
- Plain English: Echocardiogram Before Surgery (ASE)
- Spanish: Un ecocardiograma antes de una cirugía
- When do you need an echocardiogram?
- Plain English: Echocardiograms for Valve Disease (ACC)
- Spanish: Ecocardiografía para valvulopatías cardíacas
- Sometimes the echocardiogram imaging test is done very soon after heart valve surgery, while you are still in the hospital. Usually that's not useful.
- Plain English: Echocardiography After Valve Surgery (STS)
- Spanish: Un ecocardiograma después de una cirugía para reemplazar una válvula cardíaca
- If you’re having surgery, you may wonder if you need a heart imaging test first to make sure it is safe.
- Plain English: Heart Imaging Before Surgery (ACC)
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes del corazón antes de una cirugía
- If you don't have heart problems, you probably don't need a heart test before an operation.
- Plain English: Heart imaging tests before surgery
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes del corazón antes de una cirugía
- Stress tests usually aren’t helpful if you don’t have heart problems.
- Plain English: Heart Stress Tests Before Chest Surgery (STS)
- Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo del corazón antes de una cirugía de tórax
- When do cancer experts recommend imaging tests and tumor marker tests?
- Plain English: Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO)
- Spanish: Pruebas de marcadores tumorales y de imágenes para el cáncer de seno
- If you’ve had bypass surgery or a stent inserted to open a blocked artery, do you need regular imaging tests?
- Plain English: Imaging Tests After a Heart Procedure (ACC)
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes después de un procedimiento cardíaco
- It seems like getting an X-ray, CT scan or MRI to find the cause would be a good idea.
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Back Pain
- Spanish: Pruebas radiológicas debido a dolor en la parte baja de la espalda
- It seems like getting an X-ray, CT scan or MRI to find the cause would be a good idea.
- Spanish: Estudios por imágenes para el dolor en la parte baja de la espalda
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Back Pain (ACP)
- Video: Imaging Tests for Back Pain (ACP)
- Video: Pruebas de imágenes para el dolor de espalda
- It's not always a good idea to get all the tests that are available. You may not need them.
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Early Prostate Cancer (ASCO)
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para el cáncer de próstata en su etapa temprana
- Many with severe headaches want a CT scan or MRI to see if they have a tumor or other serious problem.
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Headaches (ACR)
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para dolores de cabeza
- If you are a healthy person without symptoms, you should think twice about having these tests.
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Heart Disease (ACC)
- Spanish: Pruebas de Imágenes para la enfermedad cardíaca
- Repetitive ultrasound exams may not be necessary.
- Plain English: Imaging Tests for Ovarian Cysts
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para quistes ováricos
- If you've been treated for cancer, you may not need PET scans to check for a return of the cancer.
- Plain English: PET Scans After Cancer Treatment (ASCO)
- Spanish: Tomografías (PET scans) después del tratamiento contra el cáncer
- Screening healthy people for weak areas in the brain's blood vessels can do more harm than good.
- Plain English: Screening Tests for Brain Aneurysms
- Spanish: Pruebas de detección para aneurismas cerebrales
- No medical society recommends whole-body scans. There is no evidence that they are a good screening tool.
- Plain English: Whole-Body Scans to Screen for Cancer (ACPM)
- Spanish: Tomografías de todo el cuerpo para detectar cáncer
Bone-Density Tests (AAFP) →
Brain Scans for Head Injuries (AMSSM) →
Cardiac Imaging Stress Tests (ASNC) →
Chest X-rays Before Surgery (ACR) →
Clogged Neck Arteries (AAFP) →
CMR Tests for Chest Pain and Cardiac Screening (SCMR) →
CT Scans for Children With Head Injuries (AAP) →
CT Scans in the Emergency Department (ACEP) →
CT Scans to Find Lung Cancer in Smokers (CHEST/ATS) →
Echocardiogram Before Surgery (ASE) →
Echocardiograms for Valve Disease (ACC) →
Echocardiography After Valve Surgery (STS) →
Heart Imaging Before Surgery (ACC) →
Heart Imaging Tests Before Surgery (ASNC) →
Heart Stress Tests Before Chest Surgery (STS) →
Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO) →
Imaging Tests After a Heart Procedure (ACC) →
Imaging Tests for Back Pain (AAFP) →
Imaging Tests for Back Pain (ACP) →
Imaging Tests for Early Prostate Cancer (ASCO) →
Imaging Tests for Headaches (ACR) →
Imaging Tests for Heart Disease (ACC) →
Imaging Tests for Ovarian Cysts (ACR) →
PET Scans After Cancer Treatment (ASCO) →
Screening Tests for Brain Aneurysms (AANS) →
Whole-Body Scans to Screen for Cancer (ACPM) →
Patient information about drugs
- The CDC is urging hospitals to cut back on the use of antibiotics when they are not needed. Here's what you should know.
- Plain English: Antibiotic Treatment in the Hospital (SHEA)
- Spanish: Tratamiento antibiótico en el hospital
- In most cases of middle ear infection, antibiotics are not needed. Here's what to do instead.
- Plain English: Antibiotics for Ear Infections in Children (AAFP)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para infecciones del oído en niños
- Almost all people who have catheters have some bacteria in their urine. But that doesn’t mean they all need antibiotics.
- Plain English: Antibiotics for People With Catheters (AUA)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para personas con sondas
- Antibiotic eye drops or ointments don’t usually help with conjunctivitis. In fact, they can do more harm than good.
- Plain English: Antibiotics for Pink Eye (AAO)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para la conjuntivitis
- Antibiotics don’t help most respiratory infections. Here’s when you need antibiotics, and when you don't.
- Plain English: Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Adults
- Spanish: Resfriados, influenza y otras enfermedades respiratorias en adultos
- Spanish: ¿Pueden los antibióticos ayudar a que usted se sienta mejor? (lower literacy version)
- Most of the time, children don't need antibiotics for sore throat, cough or runny nose.
- Plain English: Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Children (AAP)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para garganta irritada, tos o nariz tapada
- Many older people get antibiotic treatment for urinary tract infections when they don't need it.
- Plain English: Antibiotics for Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para las infecciones de las vías urinarias en personas mayores
- Some skin problems don’t stem from infections at all. So treating them with antibiotics can do more harm than good.
- Plain English: Antibiotics For Your Skin
- Plain English: Antibiotics For Your Skin (for printer)
- Spanish: Antibióticos para la piel
- When and how to use antibiotics to help you and your loved ones avoid drug resistance.
- Plain English: Antibiotics: When You Need Them and When You Don't
- Plain English: Antibiotics: When You Need Them and When You Don't (Complete Package)
- Spanish: Antibióticos: Cuándo se necesitan y cuándo no
- Do you really need antibiotics? They can help you. But they also can harm you.
- Plain English: Antibiotics: Will They Help You or Hurt You?
- Plain English: Antibiotics: Will They Help You or Hurt You? (For offset printing)
- Spanish: Antibióticos: ¿Te ayudarán o te harán daño?
- Spanish: Antibióticos: ¿Te ayudarán o te harán daño? (For offset printing)
- Powerful antipsychotic drugs should not be the first choice for people with dementia. Here's why.
- Plain English: Treating disruptive behavior in people with dementia
- Spanish: Tratamiento del comportamiento problemático en personas con demencia
- In this guide you can read what the experts say about using opioids.
- Plain English: Avoid Opioids for Most Long-Term Pain
- Plain English: Avoid Opioids for Most Long-Term Pain (for printer)
- Spanish: Evite los opioides contra casi todos los dolores de larga duración
- Spanish: Evite los opioides contra casi todos los dolores de larga duración (for printer)
- If you are age 75 or older and you haven’t had symptoms of heart disease, statins may be a bad idea.
- Plain English: Cholesterol Drugs for People Over 75 (AMDA)
- Spanish: Medicamentos para el colesterol para personas mayores de 75 años
- Antibiotics can help with some infections, but they're not right for every situation.
- Video: Choosing Wisely: Antibiotics
- Video: Choosing Wisely: Antibiotics (subtitled)
- Video: Cómo Elegir Sabiamente: Antibióticos
- Video: Cómo Elegir Sabiamente: Antibióticos (subtitled)
- Research shows that most people don't benefit from taking supplements to prevent heart disease or cancer.
- Plain English: Dietary Supplements to Prevent Heart Disease or Cancer (ACPM)
- Spanish: Suplementos dietéticos para prevenir la enfermedad cardíaca o el cáncer
- Think twice about treating migraine attacks with opioids or butalbital.
- Plain English: Drugs for Migraine Headaches (AAN)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de migrañas
- The older, "non-biologic" drugs are a better first choice for treating rheumatoid arthritis.
- Plain English: Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis (ACR)
- Spanish: Cómo tratar la artritis reumatoide
- When do you need CSFs? When don't you need them?
- Plain English: Drugs to Prevent Infection During Chemotherapy (ASCO)
- Spanish: Medicamentos para aumentar los glóbulos blancos en pacientes con cáncer que reciben quimioterapia
- Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
- Plain English: 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics
- Plain English: 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics (For Printer)
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos (For Printer)
- Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
- Plain English: 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics
- Plain English: 5 Questions to Ask Your Doctor Before You Take Antibiotics (For Printer)
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos (For Printer)
- Opioids (narcotics) usually are not the best way to treat long-term pain like arthritis, back pain or headaches.
- Plain English: Medicines to Relieve Chronic Pain (ASA)
- Spanish: Medicinas para aliviar el dolor crónico
- Drugs used to treat cancer can also cause harm, and some are very expensive. Here's what to discuss with your doctor.
- Plain English: Medicines to Treat Cancer (ASCO)
- Spanish: Medicinas para tratar el cáncer
- Do you have ongoing pain that is not from cancer or a terminal illness? If so, you probably don't need an opioid pain reliever.
- Plain English: Opioids for Pain
- Plain English: Opioids for Pain (for printer)
- Spanish: ¿Tienes dolor constante que no es por cáncer o una enfermedad terminal?
- Spanish: ¿Tienes dolor constante que no es por cáncer o una enfermedad terminal? (for printer)
- Sometimes antibiotic eardrops are safer and more effective than oral antibiotics.
- Plain English: Oral Antibiotics for Ear Infections (AAO-HNSF)
- Spanish: Antibióticos orales para las infecciones del oído
- If you suffer from high blood pressure, heart failure, or kidney disease, steer clear of some pain relievers.
- Plain English: Painkiller Choices With Kidney or Heart Problems (ASN)
- Spanish: Medicinas para el dolor
- Anti-seizure medicine is not usually necessary after an ischemic stroke.
- Plain English: Preventing Seizures After an Ischemic Stroke (AANS, CNS)
- Spanish: Prevención de convulsiones después de un ataque cerebral isquémico
- Sleep drugs aren’t made for children. There are no prescription drugs approved in the U.S. to treat childhood insomnia.
- Plain English: Sleeping Pills for Children With Insomnia (AASM)
- Spanish: Evite dar somníferos a los niños con insomnio
- Sleeping pills are often not the best option for insomnia. Here's what you need to know.
- Plain English: Sleeping Pills for Insomnia (AASM)
- Spanish: Las pastillas para dormir para el insomnio
- Older adults usually should try other non-drug treatments first, for insomnia and anxiety.
- Plain English: Sleeping Pills for Insomnia and Anxiety in Older People
- Spanish: Insomnio y ansiedad en personas mayores
- The popular supplements glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate do not help relieve arthritic knees.
- Plain English: Supplements for Osteoarthritis (AAOS)
- Spanish: El tratamiento de la osteoartritis de la rodilla
- Unless you have other symptoms of low testosterone, you should think twice about the treatment. Here's why.
- Plain English: Testosterone for Erection Problems (AUA)
- Spanish: Tratamiento para los problemas de erección
- Taking antibiotics when they aren’t needed can cause dangerous side effects.
- Plain English: Think Your Child Needs Antibiotics?
- Plain English: Think your child needs antibiotics? (For printing)
- Spanish: ¿Crees que tu hijo necesita antibióticos?
- Spanish: ¿Crees que tu hijo necesita antibióticos? (For printing)
- It is easy to use too much pain medicine. This can make headaches worse and cause other medical problems.
- Plain English: Treating Frequent Headaches With Pain Relievers (AHS)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de dolores de cabeza frecuentes con analgésicos
- In most cases of heartburn a PPI isn't necessary.
- Plain English: Treating Heartburn and GERD (AGA)
- Millions of people are prescribed antibiotics each year for sinusitis.
- Plain English: Treating Sinusitis
- Spanish: Cómo tratar la sinusitis
- Video: Para tratar la sinusitis
- Video: Treating sinusitis
- Millions of people are prescribed antibiotics each year for sinusitis.
- Plain English: Treating Sinus Problems
- Spanish: Cómo tratar la sinusitis
- Video: Treating Sinusitis
- Video: Para tratar la sinusitis
- If you have insomnia, antipsychotic drugs should not be the first choice of treatment.
- Plain English: Treating Sleep Problems (APA)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de problemas del sueño
Antibiotic Treatment in the Hospital (SHEA) →
Antibiotics for Ear Infections in Children (AAFP) →
Antibiotics for People With Catheters (AUA) →
Antibiotics for Pink Eye (AAO) →
Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Adults (IDSA) →
Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Children (AAP) →
Antibiotics for Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS) →
Antibiotics for Your Skin (AAD) →
Antibiotics: When You Need Them and When You Don’t →
Antibiotics: Will They Help You or Hurt You? →
Antipsychotic Drugs for People with Dementia (AGS) →
Avoid Opioids for Most Long-Term Pain →
Cholesterol Drugs for People Over 75 (AMDA) →
Choosing Wisely: Antibiotics (Video) →
Dietary Supplements to Prevent Heart Disease or Cancer (ACPM) →
Drugs for Migraine Headaches (AAN) →
Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis (ACR) →
Drugs to Prevent Infection During Chemotherapy (ASCO) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (large posters, for children) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (small posters, for children) →
Medicines to Relieve Chronic Pain (ASA) →
Medicines to Treat Cancer (ASCO) →
Opioids for Pain (rack card) →
Oral Antibiotics for Ear Infections (AAO-HNSF) →
Painkiller Choices With Kidney or Heart Problems (ASN) →
Preventing Seizures After an Ischemic Stroke (AANS, CNS) →
Sleeping Pills for Children With Insomnia (AASM) →
Sleeping Pills for Insomnia (AASM) →
Sleeping Pills for Insomnia and Anxiety in Older People (AGS) →
Supplements for Osteoarthritis (AAOS) →
Testosterone for Erection Problems (AUA) →
Think Your Child Needs Antibiotics? →
Treating Frequent Headaches With Pain Relievers (AHS) →
Treating Heartburn and GERD (AGA) →
Treating Sinusitis (AAAAI) →
Treating Sinusitis (AAFP) →
Treating Sleep Problems (APA) →
Patient information about procedures
- Some tests and treatments won’t help older adults. They may even be harmful, especially near the end of life.
- Plain English: Advice for Caregivers: Treatments and Tests for Seniors
- Spanish: Consejos para los cuidadores
- You may not need some common forms of imaging, screening tests, monitoring and drug therapy for cancer.
- Plain English: Ask Your Doctor: Do I Need This Cancer Test or Treatment? (ASCO)
- Spanish: Pregúntele a su médico: ¿Necesito esta prueba o tratamiento para el cáncer?
- Some tests and treatments for back pain may not be right for you. That's why it is important to talk to your doctor.
- Plain English: Back Pain Tests and Treatments (AAPM&R;)
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para el dolor de espalda
- Studies show that staying in bed longer than 48 hours won’t help with lower-back pain.
- Plain English: Bed Rest for Lower-Back Pain (NASS)
- Spanish: Tratamiento del dolor en la parte baja de la espalda
- Anemia is usually not urgent. Usually you don’t need a lot of blood. Or you may not need any blood at all.
- Plain English: Blood Transfusions for Anemia in the Hospital (ASH)
- Spanish: Transfusiones de sangre para la anemia en el hospital
- In contrast with surgical or "open" biopsy, a needle biopsy is easier on the body.
- Plain English: Breast Biopsy (CoC)
- Spanish: Biopsia del seno
- Some tests, treatments, and procedures are not only unnecessary, they can even prove harmful.
- English: Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO)
- Although it is hard to accept, the best thing for you may be to stop treatment for the cancer.
- Plain English: Care at the End of Life for Advanced Cancer Patients (ASCO)
- Spanish: Cuidados al fin de la vida para pacientes con cáncer avanzado
- Having some blockage in a carotid artery doesn't automatically mean you should have artery-clearing surgery.
- Plain English: Carotid Artery Surgery (AAN)
- Spanish: Cirugía de la arteria carótida
- Even a very good test can be done too often.
- English: Colonoscopy (AGA)
- It's not necessary to replace fillings that contain mercury.
- Plain English: Dental Fillings That Contain Mercury (ACMT, AACT)
- Spanish: Empastes dentales que contienen mercurio
- To hurry a baby’s birth can increase the risk of serious problems for both you and your baby.
- Plain English: Early Delivery (ACOG, AAFP)
- Spanish: Al dar a luz a su bebé
- Feeding tubes sometimes do more harm than good. Here’s why.
- Plain English: Feeding Tubes for People With Alzheimer’s (AGS, AAHPM)
- Spanish: Sondas de Alimentación para las personas con Alzheimer
- Five common physical therapy treatments can lead to harm, more tests, and greater costs.
- Plain English: Five Physical Therapy Treatments You Probably Don’t Need (APTA)
- Spanish: Terapia Física
- Home apnea monitors give little or no protection from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
- Plain English: Home apnea monitors for SIDs (AAP)
- Spanish: Monitores caseros para la apnea para el SIDS
- Many people who use long-term home oxygen therapy don’t need it.
- Plain English: Home Oxygen After a Hospital Stay (CHEST/ATS)
- Spanish: Oxígeno en casa después de una estadía en el hospital
- The American Academy of Nursing has identified four hospital practices that are usually unnecessary and may harm you.
- Plain English: Hospital Hazards (AAN)
- Some people receive the treatment even though they don’t need it.
- English: Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy (AAAAI)
- An ICD helps the heart beat normally. But if you are near death, those shocks can make things worse.
- Plain English: Implanted Heart Devices at the End of Life (AAHPM)
- Spanish: Dispositivos cardíacos implantados al final de la vida
- Here are four important tests and treatments you should carefully discuss with your family and doctor
- Plain English: Kidney Disease (ASN)
- Spanish: Enfermedad Renal Crónica
- During labor and birth, the type of fetal heart rate monitoring called IA, for intermittent auscultation, is often the better choice.
- Plain English: Monitoring Your Baby's Heartbeat During Labor (AAN)
- Spanish: Monitoreo del latido cardíaco del bebé durante el trabajo de parto
- With palliative care, you can get physical, emotional, and spiritual support at any stage of a serious illness.
- Plain English: Palliative Care (AAHPM)
- Spanish: Cuidados Paliativos
- You usually don’t need a Pap test and pelvic exam before getting birth control pills.
- Plain English: Pelvic Exams and Pap Tests Before Contraceptives (AAFP)
- Spanish: Exámenes pélvicos, exámenes de Papanicolau y anticonceptivos orales
- Watch out for two overused hospital medical practices, urinary catheters and ulcer drugs.
- Plain English: Preventing Infections in the Hospital (SHM)
- Spanish: Cómo prevenir las infecciones en el hospital
- Radiation therapy can help treat cancer and the painful symptoms from tumors. But it's not always needed.
- Plain English: Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Radiation for Cancer (ASTRO)
- Spanish: Preguntas sobre la radiación para el cáncer
- When it comes to radiation therapy, sometimes less is more. Use this advice to start a conversation with your doctor about the benefits and risks.
- Plain English: Radiation Therapy for Breast and Gynecologic Cancers (ASTRO)
- Spanish: La radioterapia para los cánceres ginecológicos y de seno
- Here is advice for talking with your doctor about whether to use radiation as part of cancer treatment.
- Plain English: Radiation Therapy for Cancer (ASTRO)
- Spanish: La radioterapia para el cáncer
- If you have breast cancer, there is a newer, simpler surgery to check your lymph nodes.
- Plain English: Sentinel Node Biopsy for Breast Cancer (CoC, NAPBC)
- Spanish: Tratamiento para el cáncer de seno
- You may not need an angiogram if your heart disease is stable. Here's why.
- Plain English: Stable Heart Disease (SCAI)
- Spanish: Enfermedad cardíaca estable
- Employers should consider these guidelines when sending workers or job candidates to the doctor.
- Plain English: Tests and Treatments Employees may not Need (ACOEM)
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos que posiblemente sus empleados no necesiten
- It can be hard to know which tests and treatments to get for prostate cancer. This report pulls together the latest advice from experts.
- Plain English: Tests and Treatments for Prostate Cancer
- Plain English: Tests and Treatments for Prostate Cancer (for printer)
- Plain English: Tests and Treatments for Prostate Cancer (for printer)
- Spanish: Exámenes y tratamientos para el cáncer de próstata
- Spanish: Exámenes y tratamientos para el cáncer de próstata )for printer)
- If you have a deep blood clot, you probably don't need a device called an IVC filter. They don't work better than blood-thinning drugs.
- Plain English: Treating Acute Blood Clots (ASH)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de coágulos sanguíneos agudos
- Most people with Peripheral Artery Disease won't benefit from surgery or angioplasty.
- Plain English: Treating Blocked Leg Arteries (SVM)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de arterias obstruidas en las piernas
- If you have prostate cancer, but it poses a low risk to you, consider "watchful waiting."
- Plain English: Treating Low-Risk Prostate Cancer (ASTRO)
- Spanish: Cáncer de próstata de bajo riesgo
- Some doctors recommend surgery. But that can lead to complications, and it doesn’t always work.
- Plain English: Treating Plantar Fasciitis (AOFAS)
- Spanish: Tratamiento de la Fascitis Plantar
- Here are some common tests and treatments a premature baby may not need.
- Plain English: Treatments and Tests Your Baby may not Need in the Hospital (AAP)
- Spanish: Tratamientos y pruebas que probablemente su bebé no necesite en el hospital
- Three procedures commonly used in the emergency room are unnecessary in many cases.
- Plain English: Unnecessary Treatments in the Emergency Room (ACEP)
- Spanish: Evite tratamientos innecesarios en la sala de emergencias
- People with heartburn often undergo a procedure called endoscopy to see if GERD is the cause.
- Plain English: Upper Endoscopy for GERD (ACP)
- Spanish: Endoscopia superior para agruras frecuentes o Enfermedad por Reflujo Gastroesofágico (GERD)
- There are several common vision tests and procedures that many children do not need.
- Plain English: Vision Care for Children (AAPOS)
- Spanish: Cuidado de la vista para los niños
- Some fertility tests are not usually needed. For example, most couples don't need laparoscopies or post-coital tests.
- Plain English: When it's Hard to Get Pregnant (ASRM)
- Spanish: Cuando es difícil embarazarse
- Here are some facts about common dental treatments. Ask your dentist which treatments are best for you and your family.
- Plain English: Which Dental Treatments are Right for You?
- Plain English: Which Dental Treatments are Right for You? (for printer)
Advice for Caregivers: Treatments and Tests for Seniors →
Ask Your Doctor: Do I Need This Cancer Test or Treatment? (ASCO) →
Back Pain Tests and Treatments (AAPM&R) →
Bed Rest for Lower-Back Pain (NASS) →
Blood Transfusions for Anemia in the Hospital (ASH) →
Breast Biopsy (CoC) →
Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO) →
Care at the End of Life for Advanced Cancer Patients (ASCO) →
Carotid Artery Surgery (AAN) →
Colonoscopy (AGA) →
Dental Fillings That Contain Mercury (ACMT, AACT) →
Early Delivery (ACOG, AAFP) →
Feeding Tubes for People With Alzheimer’s (AGS, AAHPM) →
Five Physical Therapy Treatments You Probably Don’t Need (APTA) →
Home Apnea Monitors for SIDs (AAP) →
Home Oxygen After a Hospital Stay (CHEST/ATS) →
Hospital Hazards (AAN) →
Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy (AAAAI) →
Implanted Heart Devices at the End of Life (AAHPM) →
Kidney Disease (ASN) →
Monitoring Your Baby’s Heartbeat During Labor (AAN) →
Palliative Care (AAHPM) →
Pelvic Exams and Pap Tests Before Contraceptives (AAFP) →
Preventing Infections in the Hospital (SHM) →
Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Radiation for Cancer (ASTRO) →
Radiation Therapy for Breast and Gynecologic Cancers (ASTRO) →
Radiation Therapy for Cancer (ASTRO) →
Sentinel Node Biopsy for Breast Cancer (CoC, NAPBC) →
Stable Heart Disease (SCAI) →
Tests and Treatments Employees may not Need (ACOEM) →
Tests and Treatments for Prostate Cancer →
Treating Acute Blood Clots (ASH) →
Treating Blocked Leg Arteries (SVM) →
Treating Low-Risk Prostate Cancer (ASTRO) →
Treating Plantar Fasciitis (AOFAS) →
Treatments and Tests Your Baby may not Need in the Hospital (AAP) →
Unnecessary Treatments in the Emergency Room (ACEP) →
Upper Endoscopy for GERD (ACP) →
Vision Care for Children (AAPOS) →
When it’s Hard to Get Pregnant (ASRM) →
Which Dental Treatments are Right for You? (ADA) →
Our Best Buy Drugs series
- Individual needs vary and people respond to antidepressants quite differently.
- English: Antidepressants
- Spanish: Antidepresivos
- Summary: Antidepressants
- Video: ¿Necesita un antidepresivo?
- We evaluate seven second-generation antihistamines in this report.
- English: Antihistamines
- Spanish: Los antihistamínicos
- Summary: Antihistamines
- Video: Best antihistamine for your allergies
- This report evaluates the use of five antiplatelet drugs.
- English: Antiplatelet Drugs
- Spanish: Medicamentos antiplaquetarios s
- Summary: Antiplatelet Drugs
- The atypical antipsychotics aren’t good first choices as add-ons to antidepressants.
- English: Antipsychotics for Depression
- Summary: Antipsychotics for Depression
- Spanish: Depresión: ¿Debería usar antipsicóticos?
- Video: Antipsychotics for depression
- This report focuses on the use of prescription medications called atypical antipsychotics by children and teenagers.
- English: Antipsychotics in Children
- Summary: Antipsychotics in Children
- Spanish: Medicamentos Antipsicóticos para Niños y Adolescentes
- Find Best Buy Drugs that are less expensive, as effective and as safe as some pricey, brand-name drugs.
- English: Best Drugs for Less
- Our analysis found no evidence that any ADHD drug is more effective than another.
- English: Drugs for ADHD
- Spanish: Trastorno de déficit de atención con hiperactividad
- Summary: Drugs for ADHD
- Video: Tratamiento del ADHD
- Video: Treating ADHD
- There is no way as yet to predict who will respond to one of the five drugs approved to treat Alzheimer's disease.
- Spanish: La enfermedad de Alzheimer
- Summary: Drugs for Alzheimer's
- Video: Medicamentos para tratar el Alzheimer
- Video: Drugs for Alzheimer's disease
- Not everyone with asthma or COPD needs an inhaled steroid.
- English: Drugs for Asthma
- Spanish: Asma
- Summary: Drugs for Asthma
- If your constipation persists for two to three weeks, you may need a drug. A variety are available.
- English: Drugs for Constipation
- Spanish: Estreñimiento
- Summary: Drugs for Constipation
- Video: Remedies to relieve constipation
- Six types of oral medicines are now available to help people control blood sugar.
- English: Drugs for Diabetes
- Spanish: Tratamiento de la diabetes tipo 2
- Summary: Drugs for Diabetes
- Video: Type 2 diabetes: Which drug is best?
- We have chosen one alpha-blocker as a Consumer Reports Best Buy Drug.
- English: Drugs for Enlarged Prostate
- Summary: Drugs for Enlarged Prostate
- Spanish: Agrandamiento de la próstata
- Video: Treating enlarged prostate
- PPIs are effective at treating GERD, but you will have to see a doctor to confirm you have the condition.
- English: Drugs for Heartburn
- Spanish: Inhibidores de la bomba de protones
- Summary: Drugs for Heartburn
- Video: Heartburn: What Works Best?
- We recommend that both prescription and nonprescription sleeping pills be used judiciously.
- English: Drugs for Insomnia
- Spanish: Insomnio
- Summary: Drugs for Insomnia
- Video: Beating insomnia
- If your frequent trips to the bathroom are interfering with your life or you're having accidents, consider medication.
- English: Drugs for Overactive Bladder
- Spanish: Vejiga hiperactiva
- Summary: Drugs for Overactive Bladder
- Many people who have not benefited from other rheumatoid arthritis drugs get some relief from biologics.
- English: Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Spanish: Los síntomas de la artritis reumatoidea
- Video: Tratamiento para la artritis reumatoide
- Make sure you understand the drug, why you're taking it, what to expect, and what to watch out for.
- English: Five Questions to Ask About a New Drug
- Video: Questions to Ask your Doctor about a New Drug
- Video: Preguntas para tu doctor
- Muscle relaxants might help with spasticity in disorders such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis or stroke.
- English: Muscle Relaxants
- Spanish: Los relajantes musculares
- Summary: Muscle Relaxants
- Video: Treating muscle pain
- This report shows how you could save $135 a month ($1,640 a year) or more if you need to take an NSAID.
- English: NSAIDs
- Spanish: Los medicamentos antiinflamatorios no esteroideos
- Summary: NSAIDs
- Video: Best treatments for pain
- Opioids are only moderately effective in treating long-term chronic pain.
- English: Opioids
- Spanish: Los opioides
- Summary: Opioids
- How did these dangerously addictive pills turn into the most prescribed drugs in America?
- English: Prescription Painkillers: 5 Surprising Facts
- If you have osteoporosis, here is how to choose a drug to prevent bone fractures, considering effectiveness, safety and price.
- English: Preventing Bone Fractures in Osteoporosis
- There are seven statins, but they're not all the same. Some deliver a greater reduction in cholesterol than others.
- English: Statins
- Spanish: Estatinas
- Summary: Statins
- Video: Choosing a statin drug
- If diet and exercise alone do not help enough, then you should consider adding a blood pressure drug.
- Plain English: Treating High Blood Pressure
- Spanish: Cómo Tratar la Hipertensión
- If nonprescription pain relievers don't work for you, the next step may be a triptan.
- English: Triptans for Migraine
- Spanish: Los triptanos
Antidepressants →
Antihistamines →
Antiplatelet Drugs →
Antipsychotics for Depression →
Antipsychotics in Children →
Best Drugs for Less →
Drugs for ADHD →
Drugs for Alzheimer’s →
Drugs for Asthma →
Drugs for Constipation →
Drugs for Diabetes →
Drugs for Enlarged Prostate →
Drugs for Heartburn →
Drugs for Insomnia →
Drugs for Overactive Bladder →
Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis →
Five Questions to Ask About a New Drug (poster) →
Muscle Relaxants →
NSAIDs →
Opioids →
Prescription Painkillers: 5 Surprising Facts →
Preventing Bone Fractures in Osteoporosis →
Statins →
Treating High Blood Pressure →
Triptans for Migraine →
Our Money Saving Guides
- The big difference is that generics usually cost less than brand-name drugs.
- English: Generic Drugs
- Spanish: Medicamentos genéricos
- Video: El mismo medicamento por menos dinero
- There are things you can do to save money on drugs—and sometimes a lot of money.
- English: Getting the Best Price
- Spanish: Cómo obtener el mejor precio
- Video: Cómo obtener el mejor precio en medicinas
- The best way to make sure you are taking the right drugs is to review all your drugs with your doctors periodically.
- English: Managing Multiple Medicines
- Spanish: Múltiples medicamentos
- Video: Cómo manejar múltiples medicamentos
- Using your plan’s formulary will help you save money on your drugs.
- English: Medication Formularies
- Spanish: Formulario de su plan de salud:
- One in five prescriptions in the U.S. is for a use not approved by the FDA.
- English: Off-Label Drug Use
- Spanish: Usos no aprobados
- Video: Off-label prescription drugs
- Do you need help paying for prescription drugs? You may qualify for a Prescription Assistance Program (PAP).
- English: Prescription Assistance Programs
- Spanish: Programas de Asistencia para Medicamentos Recetados
- Both the label and the information sheet tell you important safety information.
- English: Reading Labels
- Spanish: Cómo leer etiquetas
- Video: Cómo leer etiquetas de su medicina
- Video: Understanding prescription drug labels
- Tell your doctor about any previous unpleasant side effects, allergies, or bad reactions.
- English: Side Effects
- Spanish: Efectos secundarios
- Video: Los efectos secundarios
- Many doctors and health authorities are advising this strategy with more and more medicines.
- English: Splitting Pills
- Spanish: División de tabletas
- Every time you get a new drug, make sure you understand why you are taking it and how to take it.
- English: Starting a New Drug
- Spanish: Cómo comenzar con un nuevo medicamento
- Video: Cómo comenzar un nuevo medicamento
- If you skip doses, take less than the full dose, or stop too soon, the drug may not work properly. Taking too much of a drug can also harm you.
- English: Taking Your Medication as Directed
- Spanish: Tome los medicamentos según las indicaciones
- Video: Tomar las medicinas según las indicaciones
Generic Drugs →
Getting the Best Price →
Managing Multiple Medicines →
Medication Formularies →
Off-Label Drug Use →
Prescription Assistance Programs →
Reading Labels →
Side Effects →
Splitting Pills →
Starting a New Drug →
Taking Your Medication as Directed →
High Value Care
- Here's how to protect yourself, your loved ones, and others by learning all you can about vaccines.
- Spanish: Vacunas para adultos: protéjase usted y proteja a su familia
- Spanish: Vacunas para adultos: protéjase usted y proteja a su familia (For Printer)
- It seems like getting an X-ray, CT scan or MRI to find the cause would be a good idea.
- Spanish: Estudios por imágenes para el dolor en la parte baja de la espalda
- Use this guide to talk with your doctor about keeping your body healthy, getting preventive care, and choosing a healthy lifestyle.
- Spanish: Encárguese de su salud
- Spanish: Encárguese de su salud (For Printer)
- The best drug choice usually isn't one of the newer, heavily advertised ones.
- Spanish: Cómo elegir un medicamento para la diabetes tipo 2
- People with heartburn often undergo a procedure called endoscopy to see if GERD is the cause.
- Spanish: Endoscopia superior para agruras frecuentes o Enfermedad por Reflujo Gastroesofágico (GERD)
- Some vaccines are advised for all adults. Other vaccines are advised for only some adults.
- Spanish: Vacunas para adultos
- Spanish: Vacunas para adultos (for printing)
- Where should you go for care when urgent medical issues arise?
- Spanish: A dónde ir para recibir atención médica cuando la necesita
- Spanish: A dónde ir para recibir atención médica cuando la necesita (For Printer)
Adult Vaccines: Protect Yourself and Your Family (ACP) →
Imaging Tests for Back Pain (ACP) →
Take Control of Your Health (ACP) →
Type 2 Diabetes Drugs (ACP) →
Upper Endoscopy for GERD (ACP) →
Vaccines for Adults (Poster) →
Where to Go for Healthcare When You Need It (ACP) →
Choosing Wisely
- Some tests and treatments won’t help older adults. They may even be harmful, especially near the end of life.
- Spanish: Consejos para los cuidadores
- If you don’t have symptoms or a medical evaluation that points to allergy, think twice about skin or blood tests.
- Spanish: Pruebas para Alergias
- If you're having memory problems, your doctor should look for other causes before ordering a brain scan.
- Spanish: Pruebas para la enfermedad de Alzheimer
- The CDC is urging hospitals to cut back on the use of antibiotics when they are not needed. Here's what you should know.
- Spanish: Tratamiento antibiótico en el hospital
- In most cases of middle ear infection, antibiotics are not needed. Here's what to do instead.
- Spanish: Antibióticos para infecciones del oído en niños
- Almost all people who have catheters have some bacteria in their urine. But that doesn’t mean they all need antibiotics.
- Spanish: Antibióticos para personas con sondas
- Antibiotic eye drops or ointments don’t usually help with conjunctivitis. In fact, they can do more harm than good.
- Spanish: Antibióticos para la conjuntivitis
- Antibiotics don’t help most respiratory infections. Here’s when you need antibiotics, and when you don't.
- Spanish: Resfriados, influenza y otras enfermedades respiratorias en adultos
- Spanish: ¿Pueden los antibióticos ayudar a que usted se sienta mejor? (lower literacy version)
- Most of the time, children don't need antibiotics for sore throat, cough or runny nose.
- Spanish: Antibióticos para garganta irritada, tos o nariz tapada
- Many older people get antibiotic treatment for urinary tract infections when they don't need it.
- Spanish: Antibióticos para las infecciones de las vías urinarias en personas mayores
- Some skin problems don’t stem from infections at all. So treating them with antibiotics can do more harm than good.
- Spanish: Antibióticos para la piel
- When and how to use antibiotics to help you and your loved ones avoid drug resistance.
- Spanish: Antibióticos: Cuándo se necesitan y cuándo no
- Do you really need antibiotics? They can help you. But they also can harm you.
- Spanish: Antibióticos: ¿Te ayudarán o te harán daño?
- Spanish: Antibióticos: ¿Te ayudarán o te harán daño? (For offset printing)
- Powerful antipsychotic drugs should not be the first choice for people with dementia. Here's why.
- Spanish: Tratamiento del comportamiento problemático en personas con demencia
- You may not need some common forms of imaging, screening tests, monitoring and drug therapy for cancer.
- Spanish: Pregúntele a su médico: ¿Necesito esta prueba o tratamiento para el cáncer?
- In this guide you can read what the experts say about using opioids.
- Spanish: Evite los opioides contra casi todos los dolores de larga duración
- Spanish: Evite los opioides contra casi todos los dolores de larga duración (for printer)
- Some tests and treatments for back pain may not be right for you. That's why it is important to talk to your doctor.
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para el dolor de espalda
- Studies show that staying in bed longer than 48 hours won’t help with lower-back pain.
- Spanish: Tratamiento del dolor en la parte baja de la espalda
- Blood tests for thrombophilia often are not needed, even if you have had a pregnancy problem.
- Spanish: Pruebas de sangre para mostrar el riesgo de un aborto espontáneo
- In the hospital, if your blood test results stay the same after a day or two, you may not need them again.
- Spanish: Pruebas de sangre cuando usted está en el hospital
- Anemia is usually not urgent. Usually you don’t need a lot of blood. Or you may not need any blood at all.
- Spanish: Transfusiones de sangre para la anemia en el hospital
- If you’re not at higher risk for weak bones, you should think twice about the bone-density test. Here’s why.
- Spanish: Pruebas de Densidad de los Huesos
- Brain scans are usually not helpful for a concussion.
- Spanish: Las tomografías del cerebro para las lesiones de la cabeza
- In contrast with surgical or "open" biopsy, a needle biopsy is easier on the body.
- Spanish: Biopsia del seno
- Although it is hard to accept, the best thing for you may be to stop treatment for the cancer.
- Spanish: Cuidados al fin de la vida para pacientes con cáncer avanzado
- Having some blockage in a carotid artery doesn't automatically mean you should have artery-clearing surgery.
- Spanish: Cirugía de la arteria carótida
- If you don’t have signs or symptoms of heart or lung disease, think twice about having a pre-operative X-ray.
- Spanish: Radiografía del tórax antes de una cirugía
- If you are age 75 or older and you haven’t had symptoms of heart disease, statins may be a bad idea.
- Spanish: Medicamentos para el colesterol para personas mayores de 75 años
- Your doctor recommends a test, treatment or procedure. But is it really necessary?
- Antibiotics can help with some infections, but they're not right for every situation.
- Do you need a screening test for clogged neck arteries?
- Spanish: Arterias del cuello obstruidas
- CMR is an imaging test for heart disease. But it may not be the best test for you.
- Spanish: Pruebas de CMR para el dolor de pecho y examen cardíaco
- For children with head injuries, a CT scan often is not needed.
- Spanish: Tomografías (CT scans) para niños con lesiones en la cabeza
- The CT scan, used to look for early signs of lung cancer, is not useful for many smokers.
- Spanish: Tomografías (CT scans) para detectar cáncer de pulmón en fumadores
- It's not necessary to replace fillings that contain mercury.
- Spanish: Empastes dentales que contienen mercurio
- Research shows that most people don't benefit from taking supplements to prevent heart disease or cancer.
- Spanish: Suplementos dietéticos para prevenir la enfermedad cardíaca o el cáncer
- Think twice about treating migraine attacks with opioids or butalbital.
- Spanish: Tratamiento de migrañas
- The older, "non-biologic" drugs are a better first choice for treating rheumatoid arthritis.
- Spanish: Cómo tratar la artritis reumatoide
- When do you need CSFs? When don't you need them?
- Spanish: Medicamentos para aumentar los glóbulos blancos en pacientes con cáncer que reciben quimioterapia
- To hurry a baby’s birth can increase the risk of serious problems for both you and your baby.
- Spanish: Al dar a luz a su bebé
- If you’re having surgery, you may wonder if you need an echocardiogram first.
- Spanish: Un ecocardiograma antes de una cirugía
- When do you need an echocardiogram?
- Spanish: Ecocardiografía para valvulopatías cardíacas
- Sometimes the echocardiogram imaging test is done very soon after heart valve surgery, while you are still in the hospital. Usually that's not useful.
- Spanish: Un ecocardiograma después de una cirugía para reemplazar una válvula cardíaca
- EKGs or exercise stress tests usually aren't necessary for people without symptoms.
- Spanish: Los electrocardiogramas (ECG) (EKG) y las pruebas de esfuerzo durante el ejercicio
- Feeding tubes sometimes do more harm than good. Here’s why.
- Spanish: Sondas de Alimentación para las personas con Alzheimer
- Five common physical therapy treatments can lead to harm, more tests, and greater costs.
- Spanish: Terapia Física
- Talk to your doctor to make sure you end up with the right pre-op tests.
- Spanish: Small Poster in Spanish
- Spanish: Small Poster in Spanish for Printing
- Spanish: Large Poster in Spanish
- Spanish: Large Poster in Spanish for Printing
- This poster offers five questions that patients should ask their doctor before agreeing to any medical test or procedure.
- Spanish: 5 Preguntas Para Hacerle a Su Médico
- Spanish: 5 Preguntas Para Hacerle a Su Médico (lower literacy version)
- Here's a rack card designed for waiting rooms and exam rooms: Don't know what to ask your health care provider? Here are five questions.
- Spanish: Aquí hay 5 preguntas
- Spanish: Aquí hay 5 preguntas (for printing)
- This poster offers five questions that patients should ask their doctor before agreeing to any medical test or procedure.
- Spanish: 5 Preguntas Para Hacerle a Su Médico
- Spanish: 5 Preguntas Para Hacerle a Su Médico (lower literacy version)
- A handy wallet card, suitable for tucking behind your health insurance card, that reminds you of five questions to ask your doctor.
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle a su médico
- Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos (For Printer)
- Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos (For Printer)
- Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos (For Printer)
- Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos
- Spanish: 5 preguntas para hacerle al doctor antes de tomar antibióticos (For Printer)
- What you need to know about ovarian cancer prevention, risks, symptoms and testing.
- Spanish: 5 maneras de ser inteligente en cuanto al cáncer de ovario se refiere
- You probably don't need that yearly checkup. In fact, it can do more harm than good.
- Spanish: Exámenes médicos
- If you’re having surgery, you may wonder if you need a heart imaging test first to make sure it is safe.
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes del corazón antes de una cirugía
- If you don't have heart problems, you probably don't need a heart test before an operation.
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes del corazón antes de una cirugía
- Stress tests usually aren’t helpful if you don’t have heart problems.
- Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo del corazón antes de una cirugía de tórax
- Home apnea monitors give little or no protection from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
- Spanish: Monitores caseros para la apnea para el SIDS
- Many people who use long-term home oxygen therapy don’t need it.
- Spanish: Oxígeno en casa después de una estadía en el hospital
- When do cancer experts recommend imaging tests and tumor marker tests?
- Spanish: Pruebas de marcadores tumorales y de imágenes para el cáncer de seno
- If you’ve had bypass surgery or a stent inserted to open a blocked artery, do you need regular imaging tests?
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes después de un procedimiento cardíaco
- It seems like getting an X-ray, CT scan or MRI to find the cause would be a good idea.
- Spanish: Pruebas radiológicas debido a dolor en la parte baja de la espalda
- It's not always a good idea to get all the tests that are available. You may not need them.
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para el cáncer de próstata en su etapa temprana
- Many with severe headaches want a CT scan or MRI to see if they have a tumor or other serious problem.
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para dolores de cabeza
- If you are a healthy person without symptoms, you should think twice about having these tests.
- Spanish: Pruebas de Imágenes para la enfermedad cardíaca
- Repetitive ultrasound exams may not be necessary.
- Spanish: Pruebas de imágenes para quistes ováricos
- An ICD helps the heart beat normally. But if you are near death, those shocks can make things worse.
- Spanish: Dispositivos cardíacos implantados al final de la vida
- Here are four important tests and treatments you should carefully discuss with your family and doctor
- Spanish: Enfermedad Renal Crónica
- Most healthy people don't need blood or urine tests done before surgery, especially low-risk surgery. Here's why.
- Spanish: Pruebas de laboratorio antes de una cirugía
- Does your lower back hurt? You probably don’t need an MRI, CT scan, or X-ray.
- Spanish: ¿Le duele la parte baja de la espalda?
- Spanish: ¿Le duele la parte baja de la espalda? (For printer)
- There are two blood tests for Lyme disease, but usually you don't need them. Here's why.
- Spanish: Pruebas para la Enfermedad de Lyme
- Sometimes a genetic test is not the best way to find an inherited condition or disease risk.
- Spanish: Cómo tomar decisiones inteligentes sobre las pruebas genéticas
- Most people don't need to have their blood tested or their heart checked before they have eye surgery. Here's why.
- Spanish: Pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía de ojo
- Often, pre-operative tests are not necessary. It is not a good idea to get them just because you’re having surgery.
- Spanish: Pruebas médicas antes de una cirugía
- Opioids (narcotics) usually are not the best way to treat long-term pain like arthritis, back pain or headaches.
- Spanish: Medicinas para aliviar el dolor crónico
- Drugs used to treat cancer can also cause harm, and some are very expensive. Here's what to discuss with your doctor.
- Spanish: Medicinas para tratar el cáncer
- During labor and birth, the type of fetal heart rate monitoring called IA, for intermittent auscultation, is often the better choice.
- Spanish: Monitoreo del latido cardíaco del bebé durante el trabajo de parto
- If the symptoms are severe or continue for a while, you may need an electrodiagnostic test.
- Spanish: Dolor de cuello y espalda
- Do you have ongoing pain that is not from cancer or a terminal illness? If so, you probably don't need an opioid pain reliever.
- Spanish: ¿Tienes dolor constante que no es por cáncer o una enfermedad terminal?
- Spanish: ¿Tienes dolor constante que no es por cáncer o una enfermedad terminal? (for printer)
- Sometimes antibiotic eardrops are safer and more effective than oral antibiotics.
- Spanish: Antibióticos orales para las infecciones del oído
- If you suffer from high blood pressure, heart failure, or kidney disease, steer clear of some pain relievers.
- Spanish: Medicinas para el dolor
- With palliative care, you can get physical, emotional, and spiritual support at any stage of a serious illness.
- Spanish: Cuidados Paliativos
- Many teenage girls and some women have the test when they don’t need it. Here’s why.
- Spanish: Pruebas de Papanicolaou
- You usually don’t need a Pap test and pelvic exam before getting birth control pills.
- Spanish: Exámenes pélvicos, exámenes de Papanicolau y anticonceptivos orales
- If you've been treated for cancer, you may not need PET scans to check for a return of the cancer.
- Spanish: Tomografías (PET scans) después del tratamiento contra el cáncer
- Watch out for two overused hospital medical practices, urinary catheters and ulcer drugs.
- Spanish: Cómo prevenir las infecciones en el hospital
- Anti-seizure medicine is not usually necessary after an ischemic stroke.
- Spanish: Prevención de convulsiones después de un ataque cerebral isquémico
- The PSA screening test is widely used, but often is not needed.
- Spanish: La prueba de sangre PSA para detectar cáncer de próstata
- The PSA test is the only available screening test for prostate cancer, but it can have serious risks.
- Spanish: Las pruebas de sangre del antígeno prostático específico o PSA para el cáncer de próstata
- Radiation therapy can help treat cancer and the painful symptoms from tumors. But it's not always needed.
- Spanish: Preguntas sobre la radiación para el cáncer
- When it comes to radiation therapy, sometimes less is more. Use this advice to start a conversation with your doctor about the benefits and risks.
- Spanish: La radioterapia para los cánceres ginecológicos y de seno
- Here is advice for talking with your doctor about whether to use radiation as part of cancer treatment.
- Spanish: La radioterapia para el cáncer
- Screening healthy people for weak areas in the brain's blood vessels can do more harm than good.
- Spanish: Pruebas de detección para aneurismas cerebrales
- Ultrasound and the CA-125 blood test are not useful for screening low-risk women for ovarian cancer.
- Spanish: Exámenes de detección para el cáncer de ovario
- It’s important to know which tests you need, and how often you need them.
- Spanish: Pruebas de detección
- If you have breast cancer, there is a newer, simpler surgery to check your lymph nodes.
- Spanish: Tratamiento para el cáncer de seno
- Sleep drugs aren’t made for children. There are no prescription drugs approved in the U.S. to treat childhood insomnia.
- Spanish: Evite dar somníferos a los niños con insomnio
- Sleeping pills are often not the best option for insomnia. Here's what you need to know.
- Spanish: Las pastillas para dormir para el insomnio
- Older adults usually should try other non-drug treatments first, for insomnia and anxiety.
- Spanish: Insomnio y ansiedad en personas mayores
- You may not need an angiogram if your heart disease is stable. Here's why.
- Spanish: Enfermedad cardíaca estable
- Stress tests usually aren’t helpful after a stent procedure, unless you have symptoms of heart disease.
- Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo después de un procedimiento de endoprótesis o colocación de stent
- If you’re having surgery, you will probably not need a heart stress test beforehand if you are healthy, active, and feeling well, or if you’re having minor surgery.
- Spanish: Pruebas de esfuerzo del corazón antes de una cirugía
- The popular supplements glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate do not help relieve arthritic knees.
- Spanish: El tratamiento de la osteoartritis de la rodilla
- Unless you're experiencing symptoms, this test usually isn't helpful in the first few years after heart bypass surgery or a stent procedure.
- Spanish: Pruebas después de procedimientos cardíacos
- Unless you have other symptoms of low testosterone, you should think twice about the treatment. Here's why.
- Spanish: Tratamiento para los problemas de erección
- Employers should consider these guidelines when sending workers or job candidates to the doctor.
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos que posiblemente sus empleados no necesiten
- It can be hard to know which tests and treatments to get for prostate cancer. This report pulls together the latest advice from experts.
- Spanish: Exámenes y tratamientos para el cáncer de próstata
- Spanish: Exámenes y tratamientos para el cáncer de próstata )for printer)
- Before heart surgery, you probably don't need a breathing test or carotid ultrasound test, unless you have breathing problems or symptoms.
- Spanish: Pruebas antes de una cirugía del corazón
- Taking antibiotics when they aren’t needed can cause dangerous side effects.
- Spanish: ¿Crees que tu hijo necesita antibióticos?
- Spanish: ¿Crees que tu hijo necesita antibióticos? (For printing)
- If you have a deep blood clot, you probably don't need a device called an IVC filter. They don't work better than blood-thinning drugs.
- Spanish: Tratamiento de coágulos sanguíneos agudos
- Most people with Peripheral Artery Disease won't benefit from surgery or angioplasty.
- Spanish: Tratamiento de arterias obstruidas en las piernas
- It is easy to use too much pain medicine. This can make headaches worse and cause other medical problems.
- Spanish: Tratamiento de dolores de cabeza frecuentes con analgésicos
- If you have prostate cancer, but it poses a low risk to you, consider "watchful waiting."
- Spanish: Cáncer de próstata de bajo riesgo
- Some doctors recommend surgery. But that can lead to complications, and it doesn’t always work.
- Spanish: Tratamiento de la Fascitis Plantar
- Millions of people are prescribed antibiotics each year for sinusitis.
- Spanish: Cómo tratar la sinusitis
- Millions of people are prescribed antibiotics each year for sinusitis.
- Spanish: Cómo tratar la sinusitis
- If you have insomnia, antipsychotic drugs should not be the first choice of treatment.
- Spanish: Tratamiento de problemas del sueño
- Here are some common tests and treatments a premature baby may not need.
- Spanish: Tratamientos y pruebas que probablemente su bebé no necesite en el hospital
- Three procedures commonly used in the emergency room are unnecessary in many cases.
- Spanish: Evite tratamientos innecesarios en la sala de emergencias
- Older adults are often tested for UTIs. But if you don’t have symptoms, the tests are not very useful.
- Spanish: Pruebas y tratamientos para infecciones de las vías urinarias (UTI) en personas mayores
- There are several common vision tests and procedures that many children do not need.
- Spanish: Cuidado de la vista para los niños
- Doctors often order a blood test to measure your vitamin D, but the results are unlikely to change their advice.
- Spanish: Pruebas de Vitamina D
- Some fertility tests are not usually needed. For example, most couples don't need laparoscopies or post-coital tests.
- Spanish: Cuando es difícil embarazarse
- No medical society recommends whole-body scans. There is no evidence that they are a good screening tool.
- Spanish: Tomografías de todo el cuerpo para detectar cáncer
Advice for Caregivers: Treatments and Tests for Seniors →
Allergy Tests (AAAAI) →
Alzheimer’s Disease Testing (SNMMI) →
Antibiotic Treatment in the Hospital (SHEA) →
Antibiotics for Ear Infections in Children (AAFP) →
Antibiotics for People With Catheters (AUA) →
Antibiotics for Pink Eye (AAO) →
Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Adults (IDSA) →
Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Children (AAP) →
Antibiotics for Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS) →
Antibiotics for Your Skin (AAD) →
Antibiotics: When You Need Them and When You Don’t →
Antibiotics: Will They Help You or Hurt You? →
Antipsychotic Drugs for People with Dementia (AGS) →
Ask Your Doctor: Do I Need This Cancer Test or Treatment? (ASCO) →
Avoid Opioids for Most Long-Term Pain →
Back Pain Tests and Treatments (AAPM&R) →
Bed Rest for Lower-Back Pain (NASS) →
Blood Tests for Miscarriage Risk (SMFM) →
Blood Tests in the Hospital (SHM) →
Blood Transfusions for Anemia in the Hospital (ASH) →
Bone-Density Tests (AAFP) →
Brain Scans for Head Injuries (AMSSM) →
Breast Biopsy (CoC) →
Care at the End of Life for Advanced Cancer Patients (ASCO) →
Carotid Artery Surgery (AAN) →
Chest X-rays Before Surgery (ACR) →
Cholesterol Drugs for People Over 75 (AMDA) →
Choosing Wisely Public Service Announcement (Video) →
Choosing Wisely: Antibiotics (Video) →
Clogged Neck Arteries (AAFP) →
CMR Tests for Chest Pain and Cardiac Screening (SCMR) →
CT Scans for Children With Head Injuries (AAP) →
CT Scans to Find Lung Cancer in Smokers (CHEST/ATS) →
Dental Fillings That Contain Mercury (ACMT, AACT) →
Dietary Supplements to Prevent Heart Disease or Cancer (ACPM) →
Drugs for Migraine Headaches (AAN) →
Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis (ACR) →
Drugs to Prevent Infection During Chemotherapy (ASCO) →
Early Delivery (ACOG, AAFP) →
Echocardiogram Before Surgery (ASE) →
Echocardiograms for Valve Disease (ACC) →
Echocardiography After Valve Surgery (STS) →
EKGs and Exercise Stress Tests (AAFP) →
Feeding Tubes for People With Alzheimer’s (AGS, AAHPM) →
Five Physical Therapy Treatments You Probably Don’t Need (APTA) →
Five Questions to Ask About Medical Tests Before Surgery (posters) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor (large posters) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor (rack cards) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor (small posters) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor (wallet card) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (large posters, for adults) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (large posters, for children) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (small posters, for adults) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (small posters, for children) →
Five Ways to be Smart About Ovarian Cancer (posters) →
Health Checkups (SGIM) →
Heart Imaging Before Surgery (ACC) →
Heart Imaging Tests Before Surgery (ASNC) →
Heart Stress Tests Before Chest Surgery (STS) →
Home Apnea Monitors for SIDs (AAP) →
Home Oxygen After a Hospital Stay (CHEST/ATS) →
Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO) →
Imaging Tests After a Heart Procedure (ACC) →
Imaging Tests for Back Pain (AAFP) →
Imaging Tests for Early Prostate Cancer (ASCO) →
Imaging Tests for Headaches (ACR) →
Imaging Tests for Heart Disease (ACC) →
Imaging Tests for Ovarian Cysts (ACR) →
Implanted Heart Devices at the End of Life (AAHPM) →
Kidney Disease (ASN) →
Lab Tests Before Surgery (ASCP) →
Lower back pain (rack card) →
Lyme Disease Tests (ACR) →
Making Smart Decisions About Genetic Testing (ACMG) →
Medical Tests Before Eye Surgery (AAO) →
Medical Tests Before Surgery →
Medicines to Relieve Chronic Pain (ASA) →
Medicines to Treat Cancer (ASCO) →
Monitoring Your Baby’s Heartbeat During Labor (AAN) →
Neck and Back Pain: When You Need Tests (AANEM) →
Opioids for Pain (rack card) →
Oral Antibiotics for Ear Infections (AAO-HNSF) →
Painkiller Choices With Kidney or Heart Problems (ASN) →
Palliative Care (AAHPM) →
Pap Tests (AAFP) →
Pelvic Exams and Pap Tests Before Contraceptives (AAFP) →
PET Scans After Cancer Treatment (ASCO) →
Preventing Infections in the Hospital (SHM) →
Preventing Seizures After an Ischemic Stroke (AANS, CNS) →
PSA Test for Prostate Cancer (AAFP) →
PSA Tests for Prostate Cancer (AUA) →
Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Radiation for Cancer (ASTRO) →
Radiation Therapy for Breast and Gynecologic Cancers (ASTRO) →
Radiation Therapy for Cancer (ASTRO) →
Screening Tests for Brain Aneurysms (AANS) →
Screening Tests for Ovarian Cancer (SGO) →
Screening Tests: When You Need Them, When You Don’t →
Sentinel Node Biopsy for Breast Cancer (CoC, NAPBC) →
Sleeping Pills for Children With Insomnia (AASM) →
Sleeping Pills for Insomnia (AASM) →
Sleeping Pills for Insomnia and Anxiety in Older People (AGS) →
Stable Heart Disease (SCAI) →
Stress Tests After a Stent Procedure (SCAI) →
Stress Tests Before Surgery (SVM) →
Supplements for Osteoarthritis (AAOS) →
Testing After Heart Procedures (ASNC) →
Testosterone for Erection Problems (AUA) →
Tests and Treatments Employees may not Need (ACOEM) →
Tests and Treatments for Prostate Cancer →
Tests Before Heart Surgery (STS) →
Think Your Child Needs Antibiotics? →
Treating Acute Blood Clots (ASH) →
Treating Blocked Leg Arteries (SVM) →
Treating Frequent Headaches With Pain Relievers (AHS) →
Treating Low-Risk Prostate Cancer (ASTRO) →
Treating Plantar Fasciitis (AOFAS) →
Treating Sinusitis (AAAAI) →
Treating Sinusitis (AAFP) →
Treating Sleep Problems (APA) →
Treatments and Tests Your Baby may not Need in the Hospital (AAP) →
Unnecessary Treatments in the Emergency Room (ACEP) →
Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS, AMDA) →
Vision Care for Children (AAPOS) →
Vitamin D Tests (ASCP) →
When it’s Hard to Get Pregnant (ASRM) →
Whole-Body Scans to Screen for Cancer (ACPM) →
Best Buy Drugs
- Individual needs vary and people respond to antidepressants quite differently.
- Spanish: Antidepresivos
- We evaluate seven second-generation antihistamines in this report.
- Spanish: Los antihistamínicos
- This report evaluates the use of five antiplatelet drugs.
- Spanish: Medicamentos antiplaquetarios s
- The atypical antipsychotics aren’t good first choices as add-ons to antidepressants.
- Spanish: Depresión: ¿Debería usar antipsicóticos?
- This report focuses on the use of prescription medications called atypical antipsychotics by children and teenagers.
- Spanish: Medicamentos Antipsicóticos para Niños y Adolescentes
- Our analysis found no evidence that any ADHD drug is more effective than another.
- Spanish: Trastorno de déficit de atención con hiperactividad
- There is no way as yet to predict who will respond to one of the five drugs approved to treat Alzheimer's disease.
- Spanish: La enfermedad de Alzheimer
- Not everyone with asthma or COPD needs an inhaled steroid.
- Spanish: Asma
- If your constipation persists for two to three weeks, you may need a drug. A variety are available.
- Spanish: Estreñimiento
- Six types of oral medicines are now available to help people control blood sugar.
- Spanish: Tratamiento de la diabetes tipo 2
- We have chosen one alpha-blocker as a Consumer Reports Best Buy Drug.
- Spanish: Agrandamiento de la próstata
- PPIs are effective at treating GERD, but you will have to see a doctor to confirm you have the condition.
- Spanish: Inhibidores de la bomba de protones
- We recommend that both prescription and nonprescription sleeping pills be used judiciously.
- Spanish: Insomnio
- If your frequent trips to the bathroom are interfering with your life or you're having accidents, consider medication.
- Spanish: Vejiga hiperactiva
- Many people who have not benefited from other rheumatoid arthritis drugs get some relief from biologics.
- Spanish: Los síntomas de la artritis reumatoidea
- Make sure you understand the drug, why you're taking it, what to expect, and what to watch out for.
- Muscle relaxants might help with spasticity in disorders such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis or stroke.
- Spanish: Los relajantes musculares
- This report shows how you could save $135 a month ($1,640 a year) or more if you need to take an NSAID.
- Spanish: Los medicamentos antiinflamatorios no esteroideos
- Opioids are only moderately effective in treating long-term chronic pain.
- Spanish: Los opioides
- There are seven statins, but they're not all the same. Some deliver a greater reduction in cholesterol than others.
- Spanish: Estatinas
- If diet and exercise alone do not help enough, then you should consider adding a blood pressure drug.
- Spanish: Cómo Tratar la Hipertensión
- If nonprescription pain relievers don't work for you, the next step may be a triptan.
- Spanish: Los triptanos
Antidepressants →
Antihistamines →
Antiplatelet Drugs →
Antipsychotics for Depression →
Antipsychotics in Children →
Drugs for ADHD →
Drugs for Alzheimer’s →
Drugs for Asthma →
Drugs for Constipation →
Drugs for Diabetes →
Drugs for Enlarged Prostate →
Drugs for Heartburn →
Drugs for Insomnia →
Drugs for Overactive Bladder →
Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis →
Five Questions to Ask About a New Drug (poster) →
Muscle Relaxants →
NSAIDs →
Opioids →
Statins →
Treating High Blood Pressure →
Triptans for Migraine →
Money Saving Guides
- The big difference is that generics usually cost less than brand-name drugs.
- Spanish: Medicamentos genéricos
- There are things you can do to save money on drugs—and sometimes a lot of money.
- Spanish: Cómo obtener el mejor precio
- The best way to make sure you are taking the right drugs is to review all your drugs with your doctors periodically.
- Spanish: Múltiples medicamentos
- Using your plan’s formulary will help you save money on your drugs.
- Spanish: Formulario de su plan de salud:
- One in five prescriptions in the U.S. is for a use not approved by the FDA.
- Spanish: Usos no aprobados
- Do you need help paying for prescription drugs? You may qualify for a Prescription Assistance Program (PAP).
- Spanish: Programas de Asistencia para Medicamentos Recetados
- Both the label and the information sheet tell you important safety information.
- Spanish: Cómo leer etiquetas
- Tell your doctor about any previous unpleasant side effects, allergies, or bad reactions.
- Spanish: Efectos secundarios
- Many doctors and health authorities are advising this strategy with more and more medicines.
- Spanish: División de tabletas
- Every time you get a new drug, make sure you understand why you are taking it and how to take it.
- Spanish: Cómo comenzar con un nuevo medicamento
- If you skip doses, take less than the full dose, or stop too soon, the drug may not work properly. Taking too much of a drug can also harm you.
- Spanish: Tome los medicamentos según las indicaciones
Generic Drugs →
Getting the Best Price →
Managing Multiple Medicines →
Medication Formularies →
Off-Label Drug Use →
Prescription Assistance Programs →
Reading Labels →
Side Effects →
Splitting Pills →
Starting a New Drug →
Taking Your Medication as Directed →
Campaign promotions
These handouts and posters are intended to help your patients communicate more effectively with you about smart healthcare decisions.
- Consumer Reports is proud to lead the consumer communication efforts of the Choosing Wisely campaign.
- Consumer Reports has partnered with the ABIM Foundation to lead the consumer communication efforts of the Choosing Wisely campaign.
- Make sure you understand the drug, why you're taking it, what to expect, and what to watch out for.
- Talk to your doctor to make sure you end up with the right pre-op tests.
- This poster offers five questions that patients should ask their doctor before agreeing to any medical test or procedure.
- Here's a rack card designed for waiting rooms and exam rooms: Don't know what to ask your health care provider? Here are five questions.
- This poster offers five questions that patients should ask their doctor before agreeing to any medical test or procedure.
- A handy wallet card, suitable for tucking behind your health insurance card, that reminds you of five questions to ask your doctor.
- Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
- Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
- Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
- Use these five questions to talk to your doctor about when you need antibiotics -- and when you don’t.
- Don’t rush to MRIs, CT scans or X-rays for back pain.
- Don’t rush to MRIs, CT scans or X-rays for back pain.
- What you need to know about ovarian cancer prevention, risks, symptoms and testing.
- Does your lower back hurt? You probably don’t need an MRI, CT scan, or X-ray.
- Do you have ongoing pain that is not from cancer or a terminal illness? If so, you probably don't need an opioid pain reliever.
- This Choosing Wisely poster points out when you might need an EKG and stress test for heart disease, and when you might not.
- This poster points out when you might need an EKG and stress test for heart disease, and when you might not.
- Taking antibiotics when they aren’t needed can cause dangerous side effects.
- Guidelines for high value care and better health, and what it means to be an engaged patient.
Choosing Wisely and Consumer Reports →
Consumer Reports and Choosing Wisely →
Five Questions to Ask About a New Drug (poster) →
Five Questions to Ask About Medical Tests Before Surgery (posters) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor (large posters) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor (rack cards) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor (small posters) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor (wallet card) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (large posters, for adults) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (large posters, for children) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (small posters, for adults) →
Five Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Antibiotics (small posters, for children) →
Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain (large poster) →
Five Ways to be Smart About Back Pain (small poster) →
Five Ways to be Smart About Ovarian Cancer (posters) →
Lower back pain (rack card) →
Opioids for Pain (rack card) →
Talk to Your Doctor About Heart Disease Tests (large poster) →
Talk to Your Doctor About Heart Disease Tests (small poster) →
Think Your Child Needs Antibiotics? →
Your Health: Fact not Fiction (poster) →
Choosing Wisely society lists
For each society participating in Choosing Wisely, here are its consumer brochures created with Consumer Reports and a link to its full list of “Things Physicians and Patients Should Question”.
- If you are age 75 or older and you haven’t had symptoms of heart disease, statins may be a bad idea.
- Older adults are often tested for UTIs. But if you don’t have symptoms, the tests are not very useful.
Cholesterol Drugs for People Over 75 (AMDA) →
Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS, AMDA) →
- If you don’t have symptoms or a medical evaluation that points to allergy, think twice about skin or blood tests.
- Some people receive the treatment even though they don’t need it.
- Many people who need the test don’t receive it.
- Millions of people are prescribed antibiotics each year for sinusitis.
Allergy Tests (AAAAI) →
Immunoglobulin Replacement Therapy (AAAAI) →
Spirometry for Asthma (AAAAI) →
Treating Sinusitis (AAAAI) →
- Some skin problems don’t stem from infections at all. So treating them with antibiotics can do more harm than good.
Antibiotics for Your Skin (AAD) →
- In most cases of middle ear infection, antibiotics are not needed. Here's what to do instead.
- If you’re not at higher risk for weak bones, you should think twice about the bone-density test. Here’s why.
- Do you need a screening test for clogged neck arteries?
- To hurry a baby’s birth can increase the risk of serious problems for both you and your baby.
- EKGs or exercise stress tests usually aren't necessary for people without symptoms.
- It seems like getting an X-ray, CT scan or MRI to find the cause would be a good idea.
- Many teenage girls and some women have the test when they don’t need it. Here’s why.
- You usually don’t need a Pap test and pelvic exam before getting birth control pills.
- The PSA screening test is widely used, but often is not needed.
- Millions of people are prescribed antibiotics each year for sinusitis.
Antibiotics for Ear Infections in Children (AAFP) →
Bone-Density Tests (AAFP) →
Clogged Neck Arteries (AAFP) →
Early Delivery (ACOG, AAFP) →
EKGs and Exercise Stress Tests (AAFP) →
Imaging Tests for Back Pain (AAFP) →
Pap Tests (AAFP) →
Pelvic Exams and Pap Tests Before Contraceptives (AAFP) →
PSA Test for Prostate Cancer (AAFP) →
Treating Sinusitis (AAFP) →
- Feeding tubes sometimes do more harm than good. Here’s why.
- An ICD helps the heart beat normally. But if you are near death, those shocks can make things worse.
- With palliative care, you can get physical, emotional, and spiritual support at any stage of a serious illness.
Feeding Tubes for People With Alzheimer’s (AGS, AAHPM) →
Implanted Heart Devices at the End of Life (AAHPM) →
Palliative Care (AAHPM) →
- Having some blockage in a carotid artery doesn't automatically mean you should have artery-clearing surgery.
- Think twice about treating migraine attacks with opioids or butalbital.
Carotid Artery Surgery (AAN) →
Drugs for Migraine Headaches (AAN) →
- The American Academy of Nursing has identified four hospital practices that are usually unnecessary and may harm you.
- During labor and birth, the type of fetal heart rate monitoring called IA, for intermittent auscultation, is often the better choice.
Hospital Hazards (AAN) →
Monitoring Your Baby’s Heartbeat During Labor (AAN) →
- Antibiotic eye drops or ointments don’t usually help with conjunctivitis. In fact, they can do more harm than good.
- Most people don't need to have their blood tested or their heart checked before they have eye surgery. Here's why.
Antibiotics for Pink Eye (AAO) →
Medical Tests Before Eye Surgery (AAO) →
- Sometimes antibiotic eardrops are safer and more effective than oral antibiotics.
Oral Antibiotics for Ear Infections (AAO-HNSF) →
- Most of the time, children don't need antibiotics for sore throat, cough or runny nose.
- For children with head injuries, a CT scan often is not needed.
- Home apnea monitors give little or no protection from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
- Here are some common tests and treatments a premature baby may not need.
Antibiotics for Respiratory Illness in Children (AAP) →
CT Scans for Children With Head Injuries (AAP) →
Home Apnea Monitors for SIDs (AAP) →
Treatments and Tests Your Baby may not Need in the Hospital (AAP) →
- Sleep drugs aren’t made for children. There are no prescription drugs approved in the U.S. to treat childhood insomnia.
- Sleeping pills are often not the best option for insomnia. Here's what you need to know.
Sleeping Pills for Children With Insomnia (AASM) →
Sleeping Pills for Insomnia (AASM) →
- When do you need an echocardiogram?
- If you’re having surgery, you may wonder if you need a heart imaging test first to make sure it is safe.
- If you are a healthy person without symptoms, you should think twice about having these tests.
Echocardiograms for Valve Disease (ACC) →
Heart Imaging Before Surgery (ACC) →
Imaging Tests for Heart Disease (ACC) →
- To hurry a baby’s birth can increase the risk of serious problems for both you and your baby.
Early Delivery (ACOG, AAFP) →
- If you don’t have signs or symptoms of heart or lung disease, think twice about having a pre-operative X-ray.
- Many with severe headaches want a CT scan or MRI to see if they have a tumor or other serious problem.
- Repetitive ultrasound exams may not be necessary.
Chest X-rays Before Surgery (ACR) →
Imaging Tests for Headaches (ACR) →
Imaging Tests for Ovarian Cysts (ACR) →
- The older, "non-biologic" drugs are a better first choice for treating rheumatoid arthritis.
- There are two blood tests for Lyme disease, but usually you don't need them. Here's why.
Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis (ACR) →
Lyme Disease Tests (ACR) →
- Even a very good test can be done too often.
- In most cases of heartburn a PPI isn't necessary.
Colonoscopy (AGA) →
Treating Heartburn and GERD (AGA) →
- Many older people get antibiotic treatment for urinary tract infections when they don't need it.
- Powerful antipsychotic drugs should not be the first choice for people with dementia. Here's why.
- Feeding tubes sometimes do more harm than good. Here’s why.
- Older adults usually should try other non-drug treatments first, for insomnia and anxiety.
- Older adults are often tested for UTIs. But if you don’t have symptoms, the tests are not very useful.
Antibiotics for Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS) →
Antipsychotic Drugs for People with Dementia (AGS) →
Feeding Tubes for People With Alzheimer’s (AGS, AAHPM) →
Sleeping Pills for Insomnia and Anxiety in Older People (AGS) →
Urinary Tract Infections in Older People (AGS, AMDA) →
- Most healthy people don't need blood or urine tests done before surgery, especially low-risk surgery. Here's why.
- Doctors often order a blood test to measure your vitamin D, but the results are unlikely to change their advice.
Lab Tests Before Surgery (ASCP) →
Vitamin D Tests (ASCP) →
- You may not need some common forms of imaging, screening tests, monitoring and drug therapy for cancer.
- Some tests, treatments, and procedures are not only unnecessary, they can even prove harmful.
- Although it is hard to accept, the best thing for you may be to stop treatment for the cancer.
- When do you need CSFs? When don't you need them?
- When do cancer experts recommend imaging tests and tumor marker tests?
- It's not always a good idea to get all the tests that are available. You may not need them.
- Drugs used to treat cancer can also cause harm, and some are very expensive. Here's what to discuss with your doctor.
- If you've been treated for cancer, you may not need PET scans to check for a return of the cancer.
Ask Your Doctor: Do I Need This Cancer Test or Treatment? (ASCO) →
Cancer Tests and Treatments (ASCO) →
Care at the End of Life for Advanced Cancer Patients (ASCO) →
Drugs to Prevent Infection During Chemotherapy (ASCO) →
Imaging and Blood Tests in Early Breast Cancer (ASCO) →
Imaging Tests for Early Prostate Cancer (ASCO) →
Medicines to Treat Cancer (ASCO) →
PET Scans After Cancer Treatment (ASCO) →
- If you’re having surgery, you may wonder if you need an echocardiogram first.
Echocardiogram Before Surgery (ASE) →
- Here are four important tests and treatments you should carefully discuss with your family and doctor
- If you suffer from high blood pressure, heart failure, or kidney disease, steer clear of some pain relievers.
Kidney Disease (ASN) →
Painkiller Choices With Kidney or Heart Problems (ASN) →
- In some cases, especially in healthy people without chest pain, you should be cautious about the tests.
- If you don't have heart problems, you probably don't need a heart test before an operation.
- If you’re at low risk for having a heart problem, even if you have symptoms, you usually don’t need this imaging test.
- Unless you're experiencing symptoms, this test usually isn't helpful in the first few years after heart bypass surgery or a stent procedure.
Cardiac Imaging Stress Tests (ASNC) →
Heart Imaging Tests Before Surgery (ASNC) →
Stress Tests for Chest Pain (ASNC) →
Testing After Heart Procedures (ASNC) →
- Almost all people who have catheters have some bacteria in their urine. But that doesn’t mean they all need antibiotics.
- The PSA test is the only available screening test for prostate cancer, but it can have serious risks.
- Unless you have other symptoms of low testosterone, you should think twice about the treatment. Here's why.
Antibiotics for People With Catheters (AUA) →
PSA Tests for Prostate Cancer (AUA) →
Testosterone for Erection Problems (AUA) →
- If you’re having surgery, you will probably not need a heart stress test beforehand if you are healthy, active, and feeling well, or if you’re having minor surgery.
- Most people with Peripheral Artery Disease won't benefit from surgery or angioplasty.
Stress Tests Before Surgery (SVM) →
Treating Blocked Leg Arteries (SVM) →
- In the hospital, if your blood test results stay the same after a day or two, you may not need them again.
- Watch out for two overused hospital medical practices, urinary catheters and ulcer drugs.
Blood Tests in the Hospital (SHM) →
Preventing Infections in the Hospital (SHM) →
- If you're having memory problems, your doctor should look for other causes before ordering a brain scan.
Alzheimer’s Disease Testing (SNMMI) →
- Sometimes the echocardiogram imaging test is done very soon after heart valve surgery, while you are still in the hospital. Usually that's not useful.
- Stress tests usually aren’t helpful if you don’t have heart problems.
- Before heart surgery, you probably don't need a breathing test or carotid ultrasound test, unless you have breathing problems or symptoms.
