Pharmacia
Understanding medicines

Finding the ingredients in your medicine

Look for the active ingredient on the label and use the Consumer Medicine Information or ask a pharmacist for further ingredient details. Brand names alone are not a reliable comparison.

Prepare a specific question

If you are concerned about an allergy or an ingredient, write its name down and show the exact pack to the pharmacist. Avoid assuming that two products from the same brand contain the same ingredients.

Keep the information attached to the product

Note the full product name and strength when saving a leaflet. A leaflet for a similar-sounding medicine may not answer your question. Ask the pharmacist to check before using a product if you are uncertain.

Your checklist

  • Check the exact pack and strength.
  • Name the ingredient you are concerned about.
  • Ask a pharmacist to confirm suitability.

A common question

Where can I find inactive ingredients?

For prescription and some over-the-counter medicines, the CMI includes ingredient information.

Sources and further reading

Official background references. Local service arrangements must be confirmed with the pharmacy.

Your next pharmacy step

Return to the pharmacy that linked you here for individual advice. Reading this guide does not submit a prescription or start an order.

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