In 2023, more than 349 million passes at the counter of French pharmacies concerned purchasing products without a prescriptionsays the newspaper The World. A practice that continues to grow with medical deserts and waiting times to see a doctor, which are increasing in the country. As highlighted here yesterday, this practice is not without risk. To limit serious accidents linked to taking medicines without a prescription, the French Association of the Pharmaceutical Industry for Responsible Self-medication has set up golden rules to know inside out.
“We tend to forget that these drugs remain drugs,” laments the media BrutPascal Louis, president of the Collective of Community Pharmacists Groups (CNGPO). “They have beneficial effects, but also deleterious effects if they are taken incorrectly because we have not taken into account the dosage in relation to age, because we have not taken into account the side effects compared to another medication.”
This practice is relevant if followed with prudence. According to the health insurance website, it is important to resort to self-medication in the event of mild symptoms or from occasional illness. It is then necessary to ensure that the symptoms disappear before the maximum duration of treatment. If this is not the case, you must stop treatment and consult a doctor.
To limit the risks, here is a golden rules slideshow to follow before starting self-medication.
Never take a medicine whose use, nature or indication you do not understand. Always read the instructions and scrupulously respect the dosage, the interval between doses, the maximum duration of treatment and the method of administration. If in doubt about a medication, do not rely on information found on the internet. Prefer informed advice from a health professional, doctor or pharmacist.
Certain medications may be contraindicated depending on your medical history. Ask your pharmacist for advice before using. If you suffer from a chronic pathology, you should always seek the advice of your pharmacist before taking any medication. There could be interactions with your usual treatments.
As noted yesterday on Medisite, an over-the-counter medication is not just a candy. The risks are very real. It is therefore essential to always carefully respect the dosage.
To help you choose a medication, read the information on the box and always ask the pharmacist for advice.
If you observe several symptoms, such as fever, abdominal pain, neck stiffness, diarrhea, etc., it is necessary to consult a health professional. Self-medication could be harmful.
If symptoms persist beyond five days, consult a doctor. Take advantage of this consultation to talk to him about your way of treating yourself. For example, taking herbal medicine must be reported. Herbs can interact with certain medications. Never force self-medication.
Once again, a drug is never without risk. In case of unexpected effects, read the package leaflet and contact your doctor, pharmacist or professional nurse if they are not available.
Receive even more health news by subscribing to Medisite’s daily newsletter.
Your email address is collected by Medisite.fr to allow you to receive our news. Learn more.
