Medicines

#Opioid medicines and pain

Common questions about opioid pain medicines Opioids FAQs

March 16, 2024March 16, 2024 By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Opioid pain medicines can relieve acute (short-term) pain, chronic (long-term) cancer pain and pain in people receiving palliative care. Opioids are usually not helpful in treating chronic non-cancer pain. Opioid pain medicines can cause drowsiness, nausea and constipation and are dangerous when combined with alcohol or other substances. If you take opioid pain medicines for a long time, you could develop an addiction and find it very difficult to stop taking them. Opioids should be stopped slowly and gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms. What are opioids? Opioids are a group of strong pain medicines. Opioids reduce the feeling

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#Medicines information

How to read Consumer Medicine Information (CMI)

March 3, 2024March 3, 2024 By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

What is a consumer medicine information leaflet? Consumer medicine information (CMI) gives you information about your medicines. The CMI gives you facts you need to know before, during and after taking your medicine. A CMI leaflet gives you information on how to use your medicine safely. For example, it tells you about: who should take the medicine who should not take it how to take the medicine any known side effects other medicines it may interact with Your pharmacist will give you a CMI when you start a new medicine. You can also ask them for the CMI. Pharmaceutical companies

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Out-of-date medicines

March 3, 2024March 3, 2024 By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts When the chemicals in medicines breakdown, they can become dangerous. All medicines (including tablets, creams, liquids and others) display their expiry date on their packaging. Don’t keep unused medicines past their expiry dates. Take expired medicines to a pharmacy for safe disposal. Throwing away unwanted medicines in the bin or by flushing down the toilet is dangerous to others, and harmful to the environment. What is an out-of-date medicine? All medications have an expiry date. The expiry date is the point in time when the medication will no longer be as effective as it should be. Medicines should

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#Medicines information #Opioid medicines and pain

Opioids

March 3, 2024March 16, 2024 By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Opioids are pain medicines that must be prescribed by a doctor. Opioids are not generally recommended for long-term use, except in people who have cancer or are receiving palliative care. Signs of an opioid overdose include vomiting, breathing problems and unresponsiveness. Naloxone, a medicine that temporarily reverses the effects of an opioid overdose, is available for free as part of the ‘Take Home Naloxone’ program. What are opioids? Opioids are a group of medicines that may be prescribed by a doctor to treat pain. Opioids reduce feelings of pain by interrupting pain signals between the brain and the

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#Medicines information

Diuretic medicines

March 2, 2024March 2, 2024 By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Diuretics are medicines that help your kidneys produce more urine, to remove extra fluid in your body. They can lower blood pressure and relieve symptoms of fluid build-up caused by heart, liver or kidney problems. Diuretic medicines can cause an imbalance of fluid and salts in your blood, such as sodium and potassium — see your doctor regularly to make sure your levels are healthy. There are several types of diuretics, such as thiazide, loop and potassium-sparing. Do not stop taking your diuretic or change your dose without your doctor’s advice. What are diuretics? Diuretics are medicines that

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#Medicines information

Accidental overdose of medicine

March 2, 2024March 2, 2024 By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Taking the wrong medicine or too much medicine can be dangerous and even life-threatening. The more medicines you take, the higher your risk of an overdose is. When taking a medicine, always follow the instructions of your doctor or pharmacist. It can be dangerous to mix medicines with alcohol. Before you drink alcohol, find out if it’s safe with the medicines you’re taking. What is an accidental overdose of medicine? Taking too much of a medicine is known as an overdose. More Australians are dying from accidentally overdosing on medicines than ever before. Taking too much of a

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Sunscreen

February 3, 2024March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Sunscreen is a cream or lotion used to help protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Sunscreen should be applied 20 minutes before going out into the sun and should be reapplied every 2 hours. Use sunscreen that is SPF 30 or above, broad spectrum and waterproof whenever the UV radiation level is at 3 or above. Apply generous amounts of sunscreen to any part of your body that is exposed to the sun. See your doctor if you notice any skin changes that may suggest a skin cancer. What is sunscreen? Sunscreen is a

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Statins

January 27, 2024March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Statins are a group of prescription medicines used to lower cholesterol — there are many examples, including atorvastatin, rosuvastatin, simvastatin and pravastatin. They reduce how much cholesterol your body produces, so it doesn’t build up in your blood vessels. Statins can lower your risk of a heart attack or stroke and are recommended for anyone who is at high risk. To lower your risk, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle as well as taking statins. With statins, there is a small risk of diabetes and a very small risk of serious muscle problems. What are statins? Statins

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Scheduling of medicines and poisons

January 17, 2024March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts All medicines and poisons in Australia are classified by how freely they are made available to the public. Medicines with a low safety risk are usually less tightly controlled than medicines that have a higher safety risk. This system of categorising medicines is called ‘scheduling’. Medicines with a lower safety risk may be available at a supermarket or at a pharmacy without a prescription. Medicines considered higher risk may be available only with a prescription from your doctor. Why is the schedule important? The schedule is designed to protect public health and safety. Some medicines have a higher

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#Cold and flu #Medicines information

Medicines for cold and flu

January 11, 2024March 2, 2024 By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

Key facts Paracetamol and ibuprofen are effective at treating pain and fever in children and adults. Most other medicines used for colds and flu, including ‘cough and cold’ formulations and herbal remedies, have limited evidence that they are effective, but some people find them helpful. Colds and the flu are caused by viruses, so antibiotics will not relieve your symptoms or cure the illness. If you are at a high risk of complications from influenza (‘the flu’) or COVID-19, your doctor may recommend starting an antiviral medicine. Check with your doctor and pharmacist whether a medicine is right for you,

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#Medicines information #P #Pregnancy

Pregnancy and medicines

January 7, 2024March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

If you are thinking about taking a medicine while you’re pregnant, there are a few things to consider. This is because your baby’s growth and development can be affected by what you take. Each medicine is different. To make the best decision for you and your baby, learn what you need to be aware of. What should I be aware of when taking medicines during pregnancy? While many medicines are safe to take during pregnancy, a small number of medicines can harm your baby. The effect of the medicine on your baby can depend on the stage of your pregnancy.

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Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

January 6, 2024March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) offers safe, affordable medicines to all Australians. It also covers visitors from countries with reciprocal health care agreements. If you spend a lot of money on medicines, you may be able to apply for the PBS Safety Net. Some medicines are available on 60-day prescriptions. Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) What is the PBS? The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) lets Australians use lots of prescribed medicines without paying full price. The PBS is part of the Australian Government’s National Medicines Policy. The National Medicines Policy aims to balance the need for medicines with good

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#Opioid medicines and pain #P

Pethidine

January 6, 2024March 16, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Pethidine is an opioid pain-relief medicine that was once widely used in Australia for pain caused by a range of different conditions. Pethidine is now less often used because newer, safer opioids are available. Pethidine is sometimes used to reduce labour pain in childbirth. Pethidine is considered highly addictive, and so is not prescribed on an ongoing basis, or in the treatment of persistent pain in chronic conditions. What is pethidine? Pethidine is a strong opioid pain-relief medicine. It was once widely used in Australia for pain caused by a range of different conditions, but its use is decreasing

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Paracetamol

December 31, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Paracetamol is a medicine used to treat mild to moderate pain. Paracetamol can also be used to treat fever (high temperature). It’s dangerous to take more than the recommended dose of paracetamol. Paracetamol overdose can damage your liver and cause death. Always follow the directions on the packet when using paracetamol. What is paracetamol? Paracetamol is a medicine used for mild to moderate pain. It can be bought over the counter in pharmacies, supermarkets and other shops. You can also take paracetamol for: fever (high temperature) stronger pain — used with other pain relievers such as codeine Paracetamol

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#Medicines information #Opioid medicines and pain #P

Pain-relief medicines

December 30, 2023March 16, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts There are many different medicines that can treat short-term (acute) and long-term (chronic) pain. Some pain-relief medicines are available over-the-counter, while for others, you need a prescription from your doctor. The best way to manage long-term (chronic) pain is with a combination of pain medicines and non-medicine strategies, such as exercise and meditation. Talk to your doctor if your medicines are not helping you manage your pain, or if you’re experiencing side effects. What is pain-relief medicine? Pain-relief medicines are used as part of a strategy to manage short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic) pain. They work by targeting the

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Over the counter medicines

December 30, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts You can buy OTC medicines without a prescription. There are OTC medicines you can only buy in pharmacies, but you can buy other medicines in general shops, such as supermarkets and health food stores. Speak to a pharmacist for healthcare advice before buying OTC medicines. You might experience side effects from OTC medicines and they can interact with your prescription or other medicines. What are over-the-counter (OTC) medicines? You don’t need a prescription for some medicines. These are called over-the-counter medicines, or OTC medicines. You can buy pain medicines, for example, paracetamol and ibuprofen, as well as cough and cold remedies, over

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#O #Opioid medicines and pain

Options for managing chronic pain

December 30, 2023March 16, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Chronic pain can be very intense, and coping with it on your own can be a challenge. Since everyone’s experience of chronic pain is different, individuals need their own tailored pain-management plan. You can manage chronic pain by using a combination of methods that improve your physical, social, and mental wellbeing. Medicines are sometimes useful in managing chronic pain in addition to other strategies. Opioids are not usually recommended for chronic non-cancer pain. What are my options for managing chronic pain? Chronic pain is a common condition that affects 1 in 5 Australians aged over 45 years. Chronic pain

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Nicotine dependence medicines

December 28, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts If you are dependent on (addicted to) nicotine and want to quit smoking or vaping, there are medicines that can help. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is available over the counter. It helps to reduce the nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms that can happen when you stop smoking or vaping. Prescription medicines can help make it easier for you to stop smoking or vaping. Most people can benefit from NRT or medicines to treat nicotine dependence, but it’s important to get medical advice before taking any medicines. Your doctor or pharmacist can assess you and advise the best strategy

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Medicines safety for older people

December 21, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Older people have more chance of having medicine-related problems. Polypharmacy is when you take 5 or more medicines. It is helpful to keep a current list of your medicines to share with your healthcare provider. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your medicines. Why am I more likely to have problems with my medicines as I get older? Your chance of problems with medicines increases as you age for 2 main reasons: how your body works changes with age you are more likely to be taking multiple medicines (polypharmacy) as you get older Changes in

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Medicines for babies and children

December 20, 2023March 2, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Some medicines for children can only be prescribed by a doctor, and others can be bought over-the-counter in a pharmacy or shop. In Australia, the most-used medicines for pain and fever in children are paracetamol and ibuprofen. Antibiotics are prescription medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Antihistamines are medicines used to treat symptoms of allergies. In Australia, giving the wrong medicine dose is the most common cause of accidental poisonings in infants (children under one year of age). What medicines are commonly given to babies and children? Medicines for children can be either: prescribed by

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Medicines and driving

December 20, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Some medicines can affect your ability to drive safely. These can be medicines that you need a prescription to buy or ones that you buy over the counter at a pharmacy or supermarket. When starting a new medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether it is safe to drive. Which medicines can affect my driving? Some medicines have side effects that can affect your ability to drive safely. It’s illegal to drive under the influence of drugs. This means all drugs, whether they are: over-the-counter medicines complementary medicines prescribed medicines from your doctor illicit drugs How will medicines affect

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Medicines and breastfeeding

December 20, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Many medicines are safe to use while breastfeeding. Avoid using medicines and complementary medicines that aren’t necessary. If you are prescribed medication, try feeding your baby just before you take the next dose. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking a new medicine while breastfeeding. Can I take medicines while breastfeeding? Many medicines are safe to take while breastfeeding — only a very small amount of these medicines passes into your breast milk, and will not affect your baby. Before your doctor prescribes a medicine, make sure they know that you are breastfeeding. If you forget, check that the medicine

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Medicines and alcohol

December 20, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Why is drinking alcohol a concern when I’m taking medicines? Alcohol can interact with many medicines. This can change how both the alcohol and medicine affect you. This can happen even if you only drink one or 2 standard drinks a day. How can alcohol affect my medicines? There are 2 ways that alcohol can affect your medicines: The alcohol interferes with how your body deals with the medicine. Your body might speed up or slow down the breakdown of the medicine. The alcohol increases the effects of your medicine, particularly to your central nervous system (e.g., sedation). Both problems

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Local anaesthetic

December 16, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts A local anaesthetic is used to numb a part of your body so that you do not feel pain. Local anaesthetics can be applied to the skin or injected. A local anaesthetic is generally used for minor surgeries or for pain relief after surgery. Some types of local anaesthetics are available without a prescription, over-the-counter from a pharmacy. What is a local anaesthetic? A local anaesthetic is a type of medicine used to numb a part of your body for a short time. Local anaesthetics do not cause a loss of consciousness in the way that a general

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Lithium

December 15, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Lithium is a mood stabilising medicine used to treat certain mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder. Lithium may need to be taken for a long period of time — do not suddenly stop taking it without speaking to your doctor. Short-term side effects can include nausea and diarrhoea, muscle weakness or a dazed feeling. A long-term side effect can be weight gain. Your lithium dose needs to be adjusted to suit you. Go for your blood tests to make sure you have the right amount in your system. Make sure your doctors and pharmacist know if you are

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Medicines for babies and children

December 14, 2023January 10, 2024 By Dr. Ahmed Hafez

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HIV and AIDS medicines

December 9, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts If you are diagnosed with HIV in Australia, you’re likely to live a long, healthy life if you’re careful to take your medication. There are five types of medicines used for HIV and your doctor will prescribe you a combination of three of them. Be careful not to skip drug doses, to reduce your chance of developing resistance to treatment. Tell your doctor about any side effects from HIV drugs, as these can usually be managed effectively. If your HIV viral load is undetectable, then you can have sex without any risk of passing on HIV to your

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Generic vs. brand-name medicines

November 30, 2023March 2, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Generic medicines have the same active ingredient as brand-name medicines and work in the same way, but may look different and contain different non-active ingredients. Generic alternatives are often cheaper than brand-name medicines. This is because the company that produces the medicine did not need to invest money in developing and marketing it. In Australia, you can only sell generic medicines if they work the same way as the brand-name medicine. Prescribers in Australia must include the name of the active ingredient on prescriptions. This can help you know exactly what you are taking and avoid mistakes. Are

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General anaesthetic

November 30, 2023March 2, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts A general anaesthetic makes you unconscious during surgery, so you won’t be aware, move or feel pain. Medicines are given through a drip in your vein and through a breathing mask. Tell your anaesthetist about your health, allergies, medicines and any past problems with anaesthetics. You will need to fast before a general anaesthetic. You might feel tired, nauseous or cold or have a sore throat for a short time after the anaesthetic. What is a general anaesthetic? A general anaesthetic uses medicines to make you unconscious so you will not feel pain, move or be aware during

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Diabetes medication

November 17, 2023March 2, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts There are many types of medicines used to treat diabetes. The medicine that is best for you depends on what type of diabetes you have, how well it is controlled, if you have other health conditions and your lifestyle. Diabetes medicines aim to keep your blood glucose levels within a healthy range, so you feel well and to reduce your chances of complications. Your doctor can help you monitor your diabetes and recommend the right treatment for you. How is insulin used to treat diabetes? Insulin is a hormone that helps move glucose from your blood into the cells

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#C #Opioid medicines and pain

Codeine

November 12, 2023March 16, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Codeine is an opioid pain-relief medicine used for the short-term relief of mild to moderate pain. It is not usually recommended for the treatment of chronic (long-term) pain. Codeine doesn’t work for everyone, as some people’s bodies aren’t able to process it due an inherited genetic difference. Codeine is only available with a prescription from your doctor. If you stop taking codeine suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. What is codeine? Codeine is an opioid medicine that is only available on prescription from your doctor. What is codeine used for? Codeine is used for the short-term relief of mild to

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Chronic pain

November 10, 2023March 16, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Chronic pain typically lasts for more than 3 months, or beyond expected healing time. Causes of chronic pain include illnesses, musculoskeletal problems, injury, surgery and cancer. Sometimes people with chronic pain have no obvious cause for their pain. Chronic pain can affect mood, sleep and mental health, and sometimes leads to anxiety and/or depression. Treatment for chronic pain includes medicines, physiotherapy, psychological therapy, and relaxation techniques. What is chronic pain? Chronic pain is pain that lasts for more than 3 months, or in many cases, beyond normal healing time. Chronic pain is sometimes also called persistent pain. It

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Chemotherapy

November 8, 2023March 2, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Chemotherapy uses medicines to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be used by itself to treat cancer, or together with other types of treatment, such as surgery, radiotherapy and immunotherapy. Chemotherapy may also damage healthy cells, causing a range of side effects. Side effects can often be managed with medicines and other strategies suggested by your medical team. The type, dose and length of chemotherapy treatment will depend on the type and stage of cancer, your general health and your treatment goals. What is chemotherapy? Chemotherapy is a word used to describe a group

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Buprenorphine

November 7, 2023March 16, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Buprenorphine is an opioid medicine available on prescription from your doctor. Buprenorphine is prescribed for the medical treatment of people with an opioid drug dependence, such as heroin or other opioid medicines. Buprenorphine is sometimes prescribed for the treatment of severe pain. Your doctor is the best person to advise you on whether buprenorphine is the right medicine for you, how much you need and how long to take it for. Buprenorphine can cause serious side effects and should only be used under close supervision of a doctor. What is buprenorphine? Buprenorphine is an opioid medicine that is only available

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Blood pressure medication

November 4, 2023March 2, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Blood pressure medicines (‘antihypertensives’) are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Many people with high blood pressure need to take medicines to reduce their blood pressure to healthy levels. There are several different types of antihypertensives including ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers and diuretics. Your doctor will recommend one or more medicines based on your individual circumstances. It’s important to visit your doctor regularly to review your medicines and make sure they are still necessary and effective. How is high blood pressure treated? Blood pressure medicines are used to treat high blood pressure. They are also known as

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Medicines for asthma

October 27, 2023March 2, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Asthma medicines are usually grouped into ‘preventers’ and ‘relievers’. Preventers are used daily to prevent asthma symptoms, while relievers are used when necessary to relieve symptoms. Most asthma medicines are taken using inhalers (‘puffers’). People with asthma should also have a written asthma action plan to help them recognise worsening symptoms and know how to respond. You should see your doctor regularly for a review of your asthma medicines, even if your asthma is well-controlled. What are asthma medicines? Asthma medicines are usually grouped into ‘preventers’ and ‘relievers’: Preventers are used daily to prevent asthma symptoms. Relievers are

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Antidepressants

October 2, 2023March 2, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Antidepressants are medicines used to treat mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Antidepressants work on several chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters) that influence mood. Different antidepressants cause different side effects, but common side effects include nausea, dizziness, weight gain and sexual problems. Most people need to take antidepressants for at least 6 to 12 months, but many people will take them for much longer. Don’t stop antidepressants suddenly — ask your doctor how to taper (gradually reduce) your dose to minimise withdrawal symptoms. What are antidepressants? Antidepressants are medicines used to treat mental health conditions including:

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Antibiotics

October 2, 2023March 2, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts Antibiotics are medicines that treat infections and diseases caused by bacteria. Different types of antibiotics work in different ways, but all antibiotics damage bacteria so that your immune system can more easily fight the bacteria. Doctors prescribe antibiotics that are best suited to the type of infection you have. Like all medicines, antibiotics can cause side effects. Some people are allergic to certain antibiotics. Because antibiotics have been overused, many are no longer effective. Antibiotics should only be used if they are needed to treat a bacterial infection. What are antibiotics? Antibiotics are medicines that treat infections

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Anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs)

October 2, 2023March 2, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

Key facts You can buy NSAIDs with a doctor’s prescription or over-the-counter to relieve pain, inflammation and fever. NSAIDs can cause side effects such as stomach upsets and bleeding. You can reduce risk of side effects by taking NSAIDs occasionally, for limited time and at the lowest dose that relieves your symptoms. There are many brand names for the same NSAID medication, and many different types of NSAID available, so be careful not to take more than you need by mistake. What are NSAIDs? Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDs are medicines that are used to relieve pain, and

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#Medicines information

Side effects of medicines including vaccines

September 12, 2023March 3, 2024 By Sama Mohamed

What are medicine side effects? Any unwanted or unexpected effects of a medicine, including a vaccine, are called side effects. Side effects can also occur due to interactions with other medicines, food or alcohol. Not all side effects are serious. Some side effects may get better over time. For example, a new medicine might cause nausea at first but then this will go away. Sometimes side effects don’t happen right away. They can develop after you have been taking the medicine for a while. What is an adverse event? Adverse events are things that happen due to the use of a medicine,

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