How to Read Medicine Labels and Leaflets

Every medicine comes with information that helps you use it safely: the label on the pack and, usually, a folded patient information leaflet inside. They can look dense at first, but most follow a fairly predictable pattern. Knowing where to look makes it much easier to find what matters for you.

Start with the active ingredient, not the brand name

The brand name is the large, eye-catching name on the front of the box. The active ingredient is the substance that actually does the work. It is usually printed in smaller text beneath or near the brand name, and again on the side or back of the pack.

This distinction matters because the same active ingredient can be sold under many different brand names, and products from the same brand family can contain different active ingredients. Two boxes that look alike may not contain the same medicine, and two boxes that look completely different may contain exactly the same one.

Alongside the active ingredient you will see its strength: the amount in each tablet, capsule or measured volume of liquid. The same medicine is often available in more than one strength, so check this carefully, especially when replacing a pack you have finished.

Directions, warnings and other key sections

Most labels and leaflets cover the same core information, even if the layout varies:

• Uses: what the product is intended for.
• Directions: how much to use, how often and for how long. Follow these exactly, and note any differences for children or older adults.
• Warnings: who should not use the product, situations where you should speak to a doctor or pharmacist first, possible side effects, and things to avoid while using it, such as driving or certain foods and drinks.
• Inactive ingredients: colourings, preservatives and other components. These are worth checking if you have known allergies or intolerances.
• Storage: how to keep the product, for example below a certain temperature, away from light, or in the fridge.

Read the label each time you buy or use a product, even one you know well. Manufacturers sometimes update ingredients, strengths or warnings.

Batch number and expiry date

Somewhere on the pack, often on an end flap or the edge of a blister strip, you will find a batch or lot number and an expiry date. The batch number identifies when and where that pack was made, which is useful if a product is ever recalled. The expiry date is the last date the manufacturer guarantees the product's full strength and safety, provided it has been stored as directed. Our guide to understanding expiry dates explains this in more detail.

Why the patient information leaflet matters

The leaflet inside the box contains more detail than the outer label has room for, including fuller lists of side effects, possible interactions with other medicines, and advice for pregnancy, breastfeeding and specific health conditions. Keep the leaflet with the medicine for as long as you have it, so you can check it again later. If you have lost a leaflet, a pharmacist can help you find the information.

Avoid doubling up on the same active ingredient

One of the most common avoidable mistakes is taking two products that contain the same active ingredient without realising it. This can happen easily with combination products, such as cold and flu remedies, which may contain several ingredients, one of which you might already be taking in another product.

Before using more than one product at the same time:

1. Write down or photograph the active ingredients of everything you are taking, including prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal products.
2. Compare the lists and look for any ingredient that appears more than once.
3. If you find a match, or are not sure, check with a pharmacist before going ahead.

For more on this, see using over-the-counter products responsibly.

If you would like help reading a label or leaflet, ask our team at AJ Pharmacy in store, call +973 3366 8480 or message us on WhatsApp. You may also find our list of questions to ask your pharmacist useful.