Know your medicines. Stay well.
Short, practical guides from our pharmacists on using medicines safely, vaccinations, lifestyle and prevention. Also available in the app.
Taking medicines with or without food
Some medicines work best with a meal, others on an empty stomach. Timing can change how well they work.
- Check the label or leaflet for “with food” or “before food”.
- Taking a medicine with food can reduce stomach upset for some, such as metformin.
- If you’re unsure, ask your pharmacist. Don’t guess.
What to do if you miss a dose
Missed doses happen. What matters is not making it worse by doubling up.
- As a general rule, take it when you remember unless it’s nearly time for the next dose.
- Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed one.
- Some medicines have specific rules, so check the leaflet or ask your pharmacist.
Using your inhaler properly
Poor technique is one of the most common reasons asthma medicines don’t work as well as they should.
- Shake a standard (metered-dose) inhaler, breathe out fully, then seal your lips around it.
- Press once as you start a slow, deep breath in, then hold your breath for up to 10 seconds.
- A spacer can help. Rinse your mouth after steroid inhalers.
- Ask your pharmacist to check your technique at your next session.
Checking your blood pressure at home
Home readings help your pharmacist and doctor see how well your treatment is working.
- Avoid caffeine, smoking and exercise for 30 minutes beforehand.
- Sit quietly for 5 minutes with your back supported and arm at heart level.
- Take two readings a minute apart and log them in the app.
Vaccines aren’t just for children
Adults may need vaccines or boosters depending on age, health conditions, job and travel.
- Ask about vaccines such as influenza, hepatitis B and tetanus–diphtheria boosters.
- People with diabetes, heart or lung disease may benefit from extra protection, such as flu and pneumococcal vaccines.
- Your pharmacist can help you work out what you may be due for and where to get it.
Using antibiotics responsibly
Antibiotics don’t work on viruses like colds and flu, and misuse fuels antibiotic resistance.
- Only take antibiotics prescribed for you, for the current illness.
- Take the full course exactly as directed, even if you feel better.
- Never share antibiotics or keep leftovers “for next time”.
Storing medicines safely
Heat, light and moisture can damage medicines, and children are naturally curious.
- Keep medicines in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, not in a hot car.
- Store them out of children’s reach and sight.
- Follow special instructions, for example unopened insulin usually goes in the fridge, never the freezer.
Know the red flags
Some symptoms need emergency care immediately, not a pharmacist consultation.
- Chest pain, sudden breathlessness, or swelling of the face, lips or throat.
- Face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech, which can be signs of a stroke.
- Severe bleeding, seizures or loss of consciousness. Call 112 straight away.
Have a question these don’t answer?
Our pharmacists offer one-to-one advice on vaccinations, lifestyle changes and responsible medicine use.
General information only. It does not replace advice from your own pharmacist or doctor about your situation.
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