Ask your pharmacist

Do you have a clue how to look after yourself medically? When sick, do you know which over-the-countrer (OTC) medication is the right one to help you feel better? How can you get the help you need to make the right choices for yourself and your family?

With thousands of OTC medicines readily available, many people rely on self-medication to treat common medical ailments, but these are often purchased without advice from a healthcare professional.

International Self-Care Day on 24 July, an initiative by the Self-Medication Manufacturers Association of South Africa (SMASA), is dedicated to promoting pro-active self-care and responsible self-medication 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or 24/7.

OTC medicines are medicines you can buy without a doctor’s prescription. However it is important to talk to your pharmacist about their possible side effects and how to ensure you take then in the most effective way.

“Your pharmacist is well placed to provide advice on proper dosing, side effects, adverse drug reactions and possible medication interactions,” says Clicks Pharmacist Waheed Abdurahman. “He is trained to offer advice on minor ailments or illness, and can provide advice on supplementation and vitamins in support of a healthy lifestyle. He will also offer generic alternatives, which are cheaper and just as effective.”

SMASA advises the following safe and responsible tips for self-medication:

· Medicines should be of proven safety and good quality. If in doubt, check with your healthcare professional.

· Before attempting to self-medicate, users should determine whether their condition and symptoms can be managed through self-care and self-medication, or if expert advice and medical treatment from a healthcare professional is needed.

· Be extra cautious when the elderly, pregnant women and children are involved.

· Always adhere to the directions for dosage and duration of use on the product packaging and enclosed leaflets.

· Speak to a healthcare professional such as a pharmacist, doctor or nurse to obtain as much information as possible to ensure safe and responsible self-medication.

With lifestyle diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol on the rise, it’s also important to have regular health assessments and screening tests, which are covered by most medical aids.

Many pharmacies have clinic sisters who hold regular clinics to help with all aspects of your family's health and well-being from baby care to wound care. Contact your local pharmacy to find out when the clinic sister is on duty.