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MedicinesTalk Spring 2007: Medicines quizMedicinesTalk Spring 2007: 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. Some side effects disappear after a short time.
  2. Vitamin and mineral supplements are not really medicines.
  3. Medicines made from natural ingredients are 100% safe.
  4. New medicines are tested for their side effects before being approved for use in the community.

Answers below.

 

 

Answers

  1. True. Some side effects occur only when you first take a new medicine, while your body is adjusting to it.
  2. False. They are taken for their health benefits, so they are medicines.
  3. Not always. 'Natural' ingredients can sometimes be harmful.
  4. True. However, uncommon and rare side effects, and side effects that only appear after long-term use may not be detected until the medicine has been used widely in the community for several years.

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: 2009-04-20 00:00:05

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.