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Know your medicine
Before leaving the pharmacy, make sure you know the name of each medicine, what it is for, how much to take, when, and for how long. Ask the pharmacist to repeat it if anything is unclear — that is what they are there for.
Antibiotics: finish the course
Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, not colds or flu caused by viruses. Take them exactly as prescribed and finish the course, even if you feel better. Stopping early or sharing them helps bacteria become resistant, so the medicine may not work next time.
Avoid dangerous mixes
Some medicines, herbs and alcohol do not mix well.
- Tell your clinician about every medicine, herbal remedy and supplement you use.
- Do not take two products containing the same ingredient, such as paracetamol.
- Avoid alcohol with antibiotics like metronidazole and with sleeping medicines.
Store medicines safely
Keep medicines in their original packets, in a cool, dry place out of sunlight and out of children's reach. Check expiry dates, and bring old or unused medicines to the pharmacy instead of throwing them in the latrine.
