Information for the public
Safe and effective use of medicines
Safe and effective use of medicines
Most people take medicines at some point in their life. Medicines are beneficial but people don't always get the best from them. This may be because the medicines are not taken as intended, or they are taking medicines they no longer need. Mistakes are sometimes made when medicines are used. For example, medicines could be prescribed at the wrong dose, they may be prescribed when they are not needed, they may interfere with medicines already been taken, or the patient may make mistakes when taking them. Sometimes medicines are not prescribed when they should be.
Involving people in decisions about their medicines is an important principle. It also means that medicines are more likely to be taken and used properly. Good communication (with patients and carers, and between health and social care practitioners) and good practices when prescribing and managing medicines can help patients to have a more active role in managing their medicines. It can also help to reduce problems and mistakes.