Medicines

The CMI can be found in the packing of the medicine.

How to read CMIs

Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) leaflets provide information about the medicine you are taking. Learn more about where to find your CMI and how to...

Antibiotics

Antibiotics revolutionised medicine in the 1940s because they treated infections caused by bacteria. Learn how antibiotics work and what they do and d...

Antidepressant medicines

Antidepressants medicines treat depression, anxiety and related conditions. Antidepressants should only be used in consultation with a doctor.

Antihistamines

Antihistamine medications help ease allergy symptoms. Read more here about how they are used to treat conditions like hay fever and asthma.

Some NSAIDs can be obtained over the counter

Anti-inflammatory medicines

Anti-inflammatory medicines can be used to relieve pain, reduce redness and swelling (inflammation), or treat a fever.

Asthma medications

Many different medications are used to manage and control asthma. Learn more about the three main groups: relievers, preventers and symptom controller...

Blood pressure medication

Blood pressure medications (also known as hypertensives), such as ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, beta blockers and diuretics can help to ma...

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is drug treatment that aims to stop or slow down the growth of cancer cells. Find out more about chemotherapy by reading our partner page...

Child taking medicine through a syringe.

Medicines and children

Children don't always need medicine to get over an illness, but if you do need to give medicine, here are some useful tips.

Colds and flu medication

Learn about over-the-counter medicines that might help relieve cold and flu symptoms and when antiviral medication may be helpful.

Diabetes medication

There are many types of medicines used to treat diabetes. The specific medicine will depend on the type of diabetes, as well as the state of your gene...

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be caused by a range of conditions, both physical and psychological.

Erectile dysfunction medicines

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be caused by a range of conditions. It is most often treated with medications such as Viagra, Cialis and Levitra. Learn ...

During surgery, the anaesthetist will constantly monitor you.

General anaesthetic

General anaesthetic is used to make you unconscious so you will not feel pain, move or be aware during surgery. Learn how to prepare for a general ana...

Generic vs. brand-name medicines

Every medicine has a brand name and a generic name. Learn about the differences and what to consider when deciding which is best for you.

HIV and AIDS medicines

Medications used to fight HIV are called antiretrovirals. They work to stop the virus multiplying and help protect the immune system from damage cause...

Lithium

Lithium is a medicine used to treat bipolar disorder and related conditions. The decision to start using lithium should be made only in consultation w...

Local anaesthesia is commonly used in dental procedures

Local anaesthetic

A local anaesthetic is a type of medication used to temporarily numb a part of your body. Learn more about the different types, and questions to ask y...

Elderly lady holding her pharmacy pack of medications.

Medicines for older people

Older people are at increased risk of medicines-related problems. Learn the steps to take to improve your medicine safety.

Make sure to check the expiry date of all medicines.

Out of date medicines

When medicines are manufactured, by law they have to be given an expiry date. Learn more about expiration dates and safe storage of medicines.

Over-the-counter medicines

There are some medicines you don't need a prescription for. These are called over-the-counter medicines.

Pain killers

For pain such as backpain or headaches, simple painkillers such as paracetamol and anti-inflammatory agents work best but can have potential side effe...

Paracetamol

You can take paracetamol for mild to moderate pain. Here’s some information on how paracetamol works, when you should not take it and possible side ef...

The PBS provides a range of prescription medicines at a subsidised price

Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

Using the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, Australians can use a wide range of prescribed medicines without paying full price for them. Learn more abou...

Statins to lower cholesterol

Statins are medicines used to lower cholesterol. They are recommended for people who are at risk of cardiovascular disease. Find out more about how st...