Medications are used to prevent and treat symptoms but they can also cause harm, especially if they are used incorrectly.
It is very important to take your medications exactly as you have been instructed by the doctor. Also, it is important that you tell your doctor and pharmacist about any over-the-counter medication (bought without a prescription) and any herbal remedies or supplements that you take. This is so they can check that everything works together safely and effectively.
Your doctor may arrange a home medicines review to help you manage your medication. This is when a pharmacist visits you at home to provide advice about your medication use.
It is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist urgently if you are confused about your medications or if you think you may be having bad effects from them. If you have sudden, severe, bad effects that you think might be from your medication, you may need to seek urgent medical help (as you would with any sudden, severe illness). It is helpful to take your medication with you if this occurs.
Medicines Line
Telephone: 1300 633 424
This service gives people independent, accurate, up-to-date information about prescription, over-the-counter and complementary medicines.
Adverse Medicine Events Line
Telephone: 1300 134 237
For people to report possible drug reactions and errors when taking medication. This service allows consumers to speak to a pharmacist during business hours. Reports of adverse events are used to make the use of medicines safer.
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme
Telephone: 1800 020 613
For information on medicines subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and about the PBS Safety Net.