What is a medication log?

A medication log is a running record of each dose: the date, the time, the medicine, the amount and who took or gave it. Unlike a medication list, which shows what you should take, a log shows what was actually taken.

What should a medication log include?

At minimum: date, time, medicine name, dose and initials. A notes column is helpful for side effects, skipped doses or the reason an as-needed medicine was used.

Is this medication log free?

Yes. You can fill it out, print it and download it as PDF, Word or Excel for free, without creating an account.

Can I keep the log in Excel instead of on paper?

Yes. The Excel download includes a Medication log sheet with the same columns, so you can type each dose on a computer and keep the file for your records.

Should I bring my medication log to the doctor?

It often helps. A log shows your doctor or pharmacist how you have actually been taking your medicines, which makes it easier to spot missed doses or side effects.

Free Printable Medication Log

Write down each dose as it is taken, with the date, the time and who gave it. A medication log helps you see at a glance whether a dose was missed or taken twice, and it is easy to show to a doctor or nurse.

Large print, one page
PDF, Word & Excel
No sign-up

Start filling it out

Make your medication log

Add the medicines you take. They are listed at the top of the log, with blank lines below to record each dose.

2Choose a layout

About the person (optional)

Printed at the top of the list. Leave a box empty to write it in by hand.

Name

Date of birth

Allergies

Doctor & phone

Pharmacy & phone

Emergency contact

Medicines on this log

Lisinopril 10 mg · 1 tablet · MorningWhite round
Metformin 500 mg · 1 tablet · Morning & EveningWhite oval
Atorvastatin 20 mg · 1 tablet · BedtimePink oval
Vitamin D 1,000 IU · 1 capsule · MorningYellow capsule

Write one line each time a medicine is taken or given.

Date	Time	Medicine	Dose	Initials	Notes

3Print or download

Print size

Your list is saved only in this browser. We never see it unless you add it to a Family Care account.

What goes on a medication log

Date and time
When the dose was actually taken, not when it was planned.
Medicine and dose
The name on the label and the amount taken, like 10 mg or 1 tablet.
Initials
Who took or gave the dose. Useful when several people help.
Notes
Anything worth telling the doctor: side effects, a skipped dose, or why an as-needed medicine was used.
Medicines on this log
A short key at the top, so anyone filling in the log knows what to look for.
Allergies and contacts
Printed at the top so they are close at hand in an emergency.

How to use it

1
Add each medicine once, with its dose and usual time.
2
Print the log, or download it as PDF, Word or Excel.
3
Write one line every time a dose is taken. Start a new page when it fills up.

Questions people ask

Short, plain answers. Still unsure? Ask your pharmacist.

Related templates

Every template uses the same list, so you only type your medicines once.

Sources

Written by the Medication List Template team

Last updated October 28, 2026

How we write and check health content

Medication List Template helps you organize your medicines. It is not medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions.