Spanish Phrase
¿Sigo tomando este medicamento?
Meaning
This phrase is a direct question asking for advice on whether to continue a course of medication. It uses the verb 'seguir' (to continue/follow) combined with the gerund 'tomando' (taking), which is a common construction in Spanish to express the continuation of an action. The question implies uncertainty or a need for confirmation from a medical professional.
When to use
You would typically use this phrase when speaking to a doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. It's appropriate when you've been prescribed medication and need to know if you should continue the treatment, perhaps because your symptoms have changed, the initial course is ending, or you have concerns.
✦Grammar Breakdown
¿Sigotomandoestemedicamento?
Seguir + Gerund
The construction 'seguir' (to continue) + gerund (verb ending in -ando/-iendo) is used to express that an action is still ongoing or should continue. 'Sigo' is the first-person singular conjugation of 'seguir'.
Tomar (medication)
When referring to consuming medication, the verb 'tomar' (to take/drink) is commonly used in Spanish, rather than 'comer' (to eat) or 'beber' (to drink) specifically.
Este/Esta
'Este' is a masculine singular demonstrative adjective meaning 'this'. It agrees in gender and number with the noun it modifies, in this case, 'medicamento' (masculine singular).
Medicamento
This noun means 'medication' or 'medicine'. It is a masculine noun, hence 'este medicamento'.
🗨In Conversation
Doctor, me siento mucho mejor. ¿Sigo tomando este medicamento?
Doctor, I feel much better. Should I keep taking this medication?
Sí, por favor, continúe tomándolo por tres días más para asegurar la recuperación completa.
Yes, please, continue taking it for three more days to ensure full recovery.
✕Common Mistakes
¿Debo continuar a tomar este medicamento?
The verb 'continuar' usually takes the gerund directly or 'con' + noun, not 'a' + infinitive when referring to continuing an action.
¿Sigo tomar este medicamento?
After 'seguir' when expressing continuation of an action, you must use the gerund (the -ndo form), not the infinitive.
¿Estoy tomando este medicamento?
While grammatically correct, 'Estoy tomando' means 'I am taking' (right now), not 'Should I keep taking?' The verb 'seguir' is crucial for expressing continuation.
↔Alternatives
¿Debo continuar con este tratamiento?
Should I continue with this treatment?
¿Es necesario que siga tomando esto?
Is it necessary that I keep taking this?
¿Tengo que seguir con la medicación?
Do I have to continue with the medication?
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, direct questions about health are common and expected when consulting a doctor. Patients are encouraged to clarify doubts about their treatment. While 'usted' (formal 'you') is often used with medical professionals, the phrase itself is quite direct and appropriate. Always ensure you understand the instructions fully, as medical advice can be critical.