Medicines

Common medicines, explained without the jargon

Look up what a medicine is for, how it might affect you, and what to watch out for. Always follow the advice on your label and from your pharmacist.

These summaries are educational. They don't replace the official information that comes with your medicine or advice from a health professional.

Over-the-counter only

Commonly used for

HeadachesPeriod painFeverGeneral aches

Possible side effects

· Rare at normal doses
· Occasional rash

Take care

· Never exceed the daily limit on the label
· Check other medicines don't already contain it
· Talk to a pharmacist if you have liver concerns

Full guide for Paracetamol

Commonly used for

Muscle and joint painSwellingPeriod painFever

Possible side effects

· Stomach upset
· Heartburn

Take care

· Take with food to protect your stomach
· Avoid if you have certain stomach, kidney or heart conditions
· Not always suitable in pregnancy — ask first

Full guide for Ibuprofen

Commonly used for

Bacterial chest infectionsEar infectionsSome dental infections

Possible side effects

· Nausea
· Diarrhoea
· Rash

Take care

· Finish the full course as directed
· Tell your doctor about any penicillin allergy
· Does not work against viral illnesses like colds

Full guide for Amoxicillin

Commonly used for

Asthma symptom reliefWheeze and chest tightnessBefore exercise if advised

Possible side effects

· Shaky hands
· Faster heartbeat

Take care

· Needing it often may mean your asthma is not well controlled
· Always carry it if you have asthma
· Seek urgent help if it isn't working during an attack

Full guide for Salbutamol reliever

Commonly used for

Hay feverItchy eyes and noseHives

Possible side effects

· Headache
· Dry mouth

Take care

· Check suitability if pregnant or breastfeeding
· Speak to a pharmacist about the right option for children

Full guide for Loratadine

Commonly used for

Type 2 diabetes blood-sugar control

Possible side effects

· Nausea
· Stomach upset
· Reduced appetite

Take care

· Take with meals to reduce stomach effects
· Attend regular reviews and blood tests
· Tell your doctor before any scan using contrast dye

Full guide for Metformin

Commonly used for

Acid refluxHeartburnUlcer protection

Possible side effects

· Headache
· Wind
· Mild stomach upset

Take care

· Use the lowest dose that controls symptoms
· See your GP if heartburn is frequent or persistent

Full guide for Omeprazole

Commonly used for

DepressionAnxietyPanic and related conditions

Possible side effects

· Nausea early on
· Sleep changes
· Headache

Take care

· Effects build gradually over a few weeks
· Never stop suddenly — your doctor will guide any change
· Discuss any worsening mood with your prescriber promptly

Full guide for Sertraline