Tablets

Always ensure you follow the directions in the drug leaflet of your prescription tablets very carefully and note any contraindications – some medications should not be taken with others, or with certain foods. It is also advisable to review the drug leaflet to apprise yourself of adverse side-effects.

Depending on whether you’re being prescribed an oral medication, or if you are taking tablets available over the counter, your doctor or pharmacist will tell you whether you should take your medication on an empty stomach, or before or after eating. It is essential that you adhere to this advice since food in the stomach and intestine could interfere with the medication dissolving and being absorbed into the bloodstream.

Take your tablets only as indicated by the doctor or pharmacist – do not exceed the dosage prescribed, or it could cause serious complications.

Unless otherwise advised by the doctor, do not crush, break or chew any tablets, as many can be long-acting, and so have a special coating on them that delays the delivery of the medication.

Only use oral medication for the condition it was prescribed for, or, in the case of over-the-counter treatments, a condition listed on the product package.

Never share prescription medication with others, and make sure you adhere to the advice of your dermatologist or GP on how frequently you should take the medication, and when you need to stop treatment.

Certain types of prescription medication will require that you are closely monitored by the doctor, so you may need to schedule routine appointments or investigations like blood tests to ensure you are being treated safely.

If you have trouble swallowing your medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist, as it may be possible to get a liquid form of the medication, or a pill that is smaller and easier to swallow.