Understanding your medication and how to use them safely.

You can always talk to us to ask advice, either come in to see us or telephone on 01904 721 541 or email us at info@thepriorypharmacy.co.uk

Are branded drugs better than generics?

Generic medicines (i.e. the name of the active ingredient) have to undergo the same rigorous testing as branded medicines. They have to prove the same therapeutic effect in order to be granted a product licence. Generics are often different in size and colour to their branded equivalents, and are more cost-effective to the NHS.

I forget to take my medicines at the right time. What should I do?

There are many ways to help you with compliance; for example ensuring your medicines are in a calendar pack with days of the week on. If you do take a number of medicines at a variety of times, and often forget doses, ask your pharmacist about the suitability of having a compliance aid, which has your weekly medicines already dispensed at appropriate times.

I have read my patient medication leaflet, and am concerned that there seems to be loads of side effects listed. Is it still safe to take?

All medicines have side effects, and the patient information leaflet will list all those major and minor side effects, so the list can often be quite long and daunting. If you are concerned with any side effect or potential side effects, discuss this with your pharmacist, who will be able to advise on an alternative product or ways in which you may be able to reduce the severity of side effects.

Be aware – there is no perfect remedy, and you have to balance between the benefit gained from the medication Vs any side effects observed.