Use of medicines
Advances in pharmaceutical science have made it possible to develop modern medicines that are safe, effective and of high quality. In addition to new active ingredients entering the market, the effectiveness and safety of medicines are also improved through new pharmaceutical formulations that allow active ingredients to be released in different ways.
For this reason, it is extremely important to take medicines correctly in order to achieve the best possible therapeutic effect and ensure safe use. You should always take your medicine exactly as advised by your pharmacist and never skip a dose.
How should you take your medicine?
Medicines can be taken with a small amount of water or tea, inhaled or applied to the skin, depending on the pharmaceutical form and instructions for use.
When should you take your medicine?
Before meals, after meals, at bedtime, in the evening or in the morning, depending on the instructions for use.
How often should you take your medicine?
Some medicines must be taken at specific intervals (every 8 hours, every 6 hours, in the morning on an empty stomach or after a meal, at bedtime, etc.).
Your pharmacist will write all specific instructions for the use and storage of your medicines on the prescription label, which is attached to each medicine.
If you have any questions about the use or storage of your medicines, ask your pharmacist for advice.
Self-medication
When visiting a pharmacy to purchase non-prescription medicines, always ask your pharmacist for advice. Pharmacists can help you choose the right medicine for your symptoms and advise you on its correct use and storage. In some cases, your pharmacist may recommend that you visit a doctor if they consider it necessary.
Storage of medicines
Many cases of poisoning in children occur because they accidentally ingest medicines that adults have carelessly left within their reach.
Here are some useful guidelines for the safe storage and use of medicines:
- Keep all medicines in your home out of children’s reach. Take extra care when children visit and make sure that medicines are stored somewhere they cannot access.
- Medicines are generally stored at room temperature (up to 25°C), in a dry, dark and secure place. The kitchen and bathroom are not suitable places for storing medicines. Do not store medicines in the refrigerator unless advised to do so by your pharmacist. Medicines that require refrigeration should be kept in closed containers that children cannot open.
- Do not keep old or unused medicines at home, as after a few months you may no longer remember what they were intended for. Never dispose of medicines by flushing them down the toilet, as larger quantities can contaminate water sources.
Children and medicines
Young children are naturally curious and do not understand danger. They cannot distinguish between brightly coloured medicines and sweets. Tablets and pills often come in simple shapes that are easy to swallow and in different colours to help older patients remember which medicines they need to take.
Teach your children that medicines are not toys!
Sometimes it can be difficult to persuade children to take their medicine. However, never tell them that medicines are sweets or candy, as this may confuse them.
Teach your children to always show you anything unusual they want to put in their mouths or swallow.
Some children may also be attracted to brightly coloured tubes. Ointments and creams can also harm children’s delicate skin, as many medicines can be absorbed through the skin. They can also be harmful if children lick or swallow them.
What should you do if you suspect that your child has taken medicine that was not intended for them?
- Take your child to the nearest hospital or health centre as soon as possible.
- Bring the container or packaging with any remaining medicine so that the doctor can take appropriate action quickly.
- If your child is unconscious, place them in the recovery position (on their side) to prevent choking and seek emergency medical assistance immediately.