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Ask the right questions Things to know about
your medicines

Why don’t we think about this stuff?

Ask the right questions so you can get the most out of your medicines and make better informed decisions about them.

Getting the answers

Get the answers you need from trusted sources such as the consumer medicines information (CMI) leaflet for your medicine, your doctor, pharmacist or other health professional, or browse NPS medicine and health information.

Below are some examples of what you should know about your medicines and some questions to ask.

If you are thinking about starting a medicine, you can learn more about the right questions to ask in Medicinewise Choices.

What the medicine is for

  • Why has this medicine been prescribed or recommended for me?
  • What changes in my health could I expect from this medicine and when?

What the active ingredient is

  • What is the active ingredient in my brand of medicine?
  • Are there different brands of the same medicine that I should be aware of?

How to use the medicine

  • What times of the day should I take my medicine?
  • What should I do if I forget a dose?

When to stop using any of your medicines

  • Do I have to finish all of the medicine, just use it until I feel better, or keep using it for a long time?
  • Should I stop using my other medicines before starting a new one?

Any special instructions

  • Do I take my medicine before, during or after meals?
  • If I have to use a special device (e.g. puffer), what is the correct way to use it?

Possible side effects

  • What side effects should I watch out for?
  • How likely is it that I will get a side effect and what should I do if this happens?

Taking any other medicines

  • Can this medicine be taken at the same time as my other prescribed medicines?
  • Are there any non-prescription medicines (including vitamins, herbs, natural remedies, creams, gels and eye drops) that I should not use with my medicine?

Storing your medicines

  • Does my medicine need to be kept in the fridge?
  • Can I still use my medicine if it’s exposed to heat or direct sunlight?

Other activities or things you should be careful of

  • Is it safe to drive or operate machinery while taking this medicine? More info available here.
  • Can I drink alcohol when using this medicine?

Any monitoring and reviewing

  • Do I need to self-monitor or test anything while taking my medicine (e.g. blood glucose levels)?
  • How often do I need to have my medicines or management plan reviewed?
BE MEDICINEWISE
MORE INFO

Date published: 2011-01-20 00:00:00

Reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the date of creation. This information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice from a qualified health professional. Health professionals should rely on their own expertise and enquiries when providing medical advice or treatment. Where permitted by law, NPS disclaims all liability (including for negligence) for any loss, damage or injury resulting from reliance on or use of this information. Read our full disclaimer.

References to brands should not be taken as an endorsement by NPS.