Whether you have a cold or need a prescription filled, the pharmacy (or chemist/drugstore) is where you go. Here is the vocabulary you need.
1. Types of Medicine
- Prescription: Medicine you can only get with a doctor's note.
- Over-the-counter (OTC): Medicine you can buy without a prescription.
- Painkiller: Medicine to stop pain (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen).
- Antibiotics: Medicine to kill bacteria.
2. Forms of Medicine
Key Terms:
- Pill / Tablet: Solid medicine you swallow.
- Capsule: Medicine inside a small shell.
- Syrup / Liquid: Medicine you drink (often for coughs).
- Ointment / Cream: Medicine you put on your skin.
3. Dosage Instructions
How to take it safely.
- "Take one tablet every 4 hours."
- "Take with food." (Eat something first).
- "Do not exceed the recommended dose."
- "For external use only." (Do not eat/drink it).
4. Asking the Pharmacist
- "Do you have anything for a sore throat?"
- "Does this have any side effects?" (e.g., drowsiness).
- "Can I take this with other medication?"
- "I'd like to pick up a prescription."
Medical English
Understanding medical labels is vital. Join the "Health & Wellness" group on EnglishMeet to learn more.
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