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Medicines
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Drug Therapy

Medicines

Medicines are essential tools for treating diseases and improving health, but they must be used safely and correctly to be effective.

Medicines can treat diseases and improve your health. If you are like most people, you need to take medicine at some point in your life. You may need to take medicine every day, or you may only need to take medicine once in a while. Either way, you want to make sure that your medicines are safe, and that they will help you get better. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration is in charge of ensuring that your prescription and over-the-counter medicines are safe and effective.

Understanding Risks

There are always risks to taking medicines. It is important to think about these risks before you take a medicine. Even safe medicines can cause unwanted side effects or interactions with food, alcohol, or other medicines you may be taking. Some medicines may not be safe during pregnancy.

To reduce the risk of reactions and make sure that you get better, it is important for you to take your medicines correctly. You should also be careful when giving medicines to children, since they can be more vulnerable to the effects of medicines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do not stop taking a prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare provider, as stopping abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms or allow the underlying condition to worsen. Contact your doctor if a side effect is persistent, worsening, or interfering with your daily life. Seek immediate emergency care for signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling. Your provider can determine if the side effect is manageable, if the dose needs adjustment, or if a different medication is more appropriate for your body.
The correct action depends on the specific drug and how much time has passed. Generally, if you remember a missed dose soon after it was due, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Never double up on doses to make up for a missed one, as this can lead to toxicity. If you are unsure, call your pharmacist or check the patient information leaflet for specific instructions regarding that medication.
No, over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are not risk-free. They are available without a prescription because they have a well-established safety profile when used as directed, but they can still cause serious harm if misused. Taking too much acetaminophen can cause liver damage, and combining certain cold and flu medicines can lead to dangerous interactions or excessive sedation. Always read the label carefully, check for active ingredients to avoid duplicating doses with other medications, and consult a pharmacist if you are taking other prescription drugs or have chronic health conditions.
Most medicines should be stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid storing medications in the bathroom, as humidity from showers can degrade pills and liquids. Keep medicines in their original containers with the lid tightly closed to protect them from air and light. Do not store medicines in the refrigerator unless specifically instructed by the label or pharmacist, as freezing can break down the active ingredients. Always check the expiration date, as expired medicines may lose potency or become unsafe.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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