You will be asked about your symptoms – what they are, how long you have had them and whether they have changed. If our pharmacist thinks it is necessary, you will be advised to see your doctor. You may also be given advice on how to help the problem without taking a medicine. The pharmacist may choose not to sell you a Pharmacist-Only medicine, even if you have specifically requested it. The decision rests with the pharmacist.

You may also be asked about other medicines you are using. You should tell your pharmacist about all medicines and other remedies or supplements you take – including those prescribed by your doctor, and those bought from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop (including eye drops, nasal sprays, ointments, skin patches, herbal remedies and dietary supplements etc.). Our pharmacist needs to know about all the other medicines you are taking because some medicines can cause others to be less effective, or react with others to cause unpleasant or even dangerous side-effects.

Our pharmacist will also need to know whether you are suffering from any other medical conditions. This is because a medicine taken to improve one condition can make another unrelated condition worse. The pharmacist may also ask if you have ever had any allergies or reactions to a medicine. Always remember to tell the pharmacist if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy.

(Source: Medsafe – New Zealand Medicines and Medical Device Safety Authority)