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MedicinesTalk Summer 2008: Medicines quizMedicinesTalk Summer 2008: Medicines quiz

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Test your knowledge of the quality use of medicines issues covered in this edition of MedicinesTalk. 

Are the following statements true or false?

  1. Medicines you can buy at supermarkets have relatively few risks.
  2. Generic medicines work in the same way as the medicine they replace.
  3. Pharmacists can give advice about non-prescription medicines.
  4. People with heart conditions should take antibiotics before going to the dentist.
Answers below.



Answers

  1. True. They are unlikely to cause harm if used as directed, but all medicines, including alternative medicines, have some risks. For example, they may cause side effects or interactions in some people, or be harmful if over-used.
  2. True. They have the same intended effect in the body as the original brand.
  3. True. They can also give advice about prescription medicines.
  4. Only true for people with certain heart conditions. To find out more, ask your doctor or dentist, or obtain the National Prescribing Service’s leaflet Preventing infections of the heart.


MedicinesTalk is a free quarterly newsletter for consumers written by consumers about using medicines wisely. Subscribe to the hard copy version using our online ordering system, or write to MedicinesTalk, National Prescribing Service Limited, PO Box 1147, Strawberry Hills, NSW 2012.

Date published: 2009-01-30 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.