Taking medicines safely
Taking medicines exactly as directed, and reading the leaflet, helps them work safely and effectively.
- Updated August 2026
- Clinical review pending
- 1 source
At a glance
- Take medicines exactly as directed.
- Do not stop a prescribed medicine without advice.
On this page (2 sections)
Overview
Take your medicine exactly as directed and read the patient information leaflet, which explains how to take it and possible side effects [1].
Good habits
Do not stop or change a prescribed medicine without speaking to a healthcare professional, keep medicines out of the reach of children, and ask a pharmacist if you have any questions [1].
Sources
- NHS. Medicines A to Z (opens in new tab) Accessed 12 August 2026.
About this page
- Written by
- Consumer Health editorial team
- Medical review
- Pending — this page has not yet been reviewed by a named clinician. Read our medical review policy.
- Last updated
- August 2026
- Next review due
- August 2027
Important: This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional — such as your GP or pharmacist — for advice about your individual circumstances, and do not start, stop or change any prescribed treatment based only on this page. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 999. Consumer Health is an independent health-information resource and is not the NHS or a government body.
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