Do you read the label every time?

Medicines and medical devices are not like other products you can buy.

All medicines and medical devices can have risks and side effects, even those you can buy without a doctor’s prescription.

They can affect people in different ways. Their impact on our bodies can also change depending on the other products we’re using.

This is why the TGA requires companies who make these products to include key information on the labels.

This includes information about how to use the products properly, their suitability and warnings about their use.

You might also find this information in a packet insert or online.

Sometimes it can be overwhelming, but it’s important you read and understand the information.

It is there to help you make good decisions about whether the product is right for you.

Even if you think a medicine or medical device is safe or you’ve used it before, remember to check the label every time.

This is because labels may be updated to include new information. They can include new warnings, changes to how much of the medicine you should take or how to store it.

By reading the label and following a few simple steps, you can reduce the risk of something going wrong.

Step 1: Read the label carefully before you buy

Medicines and medical devices are designed to be used in a certain way to make them as safe and effective as possible.

Read the label before you buy it. There may be information about who can’t use the product, such as children, pregnant women, or people with certain conditions.

Also, check the labels of any other medicines, supplements, and vitamins you’re already taking. Speak to your pharmacist if you are unsure what medicines can be taken safely at the same time.

Step 2: Speak to your health professional or a pharmacist and follow all instructions

Speak to your health professional or pharmacist and make sure the product is the best treatment for your condition. There may be other options that are more suitable or safer.

Always tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other medicines, including herbal supplements or vitamins. Some medicines or vitamins can be harmful when taken with other medicines.

Before you take a medicine or use a medical device, read all the instructions on the label. For medicines, there will be important information about how much you should take, how often, for how long, and if you need to take it with anything else.

Remember: incorrect use could be harmful.

Step 3. Track your symptoms

Some medicines will have side effects and may make you feel worse or have unexpected symptoms. 

If this happens, stop taking the medicine and seek advice from a health professional.

If your symptoms are serious, call 000 for emergency help.

Examples of warnings you may see

The sort of warnings or instructions you might see on products that you can purchase without a prescription include:

• Antihistamines – May cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive a vehicle or operate machinery. Avoid alcohol.
• Aspirin – Unless a doctor has told you to, do not use in children under 12 years of age.
• Ibuprofen – Do not exceed the recommended dose. Excessive use can be harmful. Do not use if you have a stomach ulcer, or other stomach disorders, kidney, liver or heart problems.
• Nasal decongestants – Do not take this medicine for longer than a few days at a time unless advised to by a doctor.
• Vitamin B6 – Stop taking this medication if you experience tingling, burning or numbness and see your doctor as soon as possible.

For more information see What’s on my medicine label.