What a prescription shows
Your name and the date; the name of each medicine (usually its generic name, the active ingredient, sometimes with a brand name); its strength and form, such as tablet, syrup or inhaler; how much to take, how often and for how long; any special instructions, like 'after food'; and the doctor's name, signature and registration number.
On the pack
Check that the name and strength match the prescription, look at the expiry date, and read the leaflet inside. If anything is different, unclear or hard to read, ask the pharmacist before you take it.
Good habits
Keep your prescriptions in one place. A prescription is only for the person it's written for: never share it or use someone else's.
When to talk to someone
If you can't read the prescription or don't understand the instructions, ask the pharmacist or call the doctor's clinic. Asking is always safer than guessing.
Need help now?
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