Medicines help us when we use them correctly. A few simple rules reduce the risk of mistakes and side effects for the whole family.
Read before you take
- Check the name, the dose and how often to take it every time.
- Use the measuring spoon or syringe that comes with liquid medicines, not kitchen spoons.
- Many cold and pain products contain the same ingredient, such as paracetamol; do not take two of them together.
- Ask your pharmacist if anything on the label is not clear.
Keep a list of your medicines
Write down every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take, with the dose. Show the list to your doctor and pharmacist at each visit; it helps them avoid interactions.
Antibiotics: use them only when needed
Antibiotics treat bacterial infections; they do not help colds or most sore throats, which are caused by viruses. When an antibiotic is prescribed for you:
- Take it at the times given and complete the course as your doctor advises.
- Do not keep leftovers for later or share them with others.
Storing medicines
- Keep medicines in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight; the bathroom is not ideal.
- Store them out of the sight and reach of children.
- Check expiry dates regularly and ask the pharmacy how to dispose of old medicines.
