Medicines

Learn more about a range of medicines, such as pain relief medicines, antidepressants and medicines for children.

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Side effects of medicines including vaccines

Side effects are any unwanted effects of a medicine. Learn more about different types of medicine side effects and what to do if you have them.

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Medicine recalls

Medicines are recalled from time to time for a range of different reasons. Learn more about who regulates it and what to do if your medicine has been recalled.

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Buying medicines online

Buying medicines on the internet has its advantages, but there is a risk of losing your money, damaging your health or breaking the law.

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Home medicines review

It’s important to manage your medicines correctly. A free home medicines review (HMR) by a pharmacist can help make sure that your medicines are safe.

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St John's wort

Links to our information partners' articles about St John's wort.

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Complementary therapy

Complementary therapy, sometimes called alternative therapy or integrative medicine, is often used alongside conventional medicine.

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Allergies

Trusted information about allergy types, as well as allergy testing, anaphylaxis, antihistamines and common related conditions such as asthma and hay fever.

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Vaccine preventable diseases

Vaccine preventable diseases (VPDs) — such as measles, mumps — can be prevented by an immunisation program. Learn more about VPDs in Australia.

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Hormones

Hormones are responsible for many bodily functions including growth, repair, maintenance and triggering a number of bodily processes. Learn more here.

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Immunisation and vaccinations

Immunisation and vaccinations are simple and effective preventative measures to help protect children and adults against harmful infections and diseases before they come into contact with them in the community.

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Diethylstilboestrol (DES)

Follow the links below to find out more about diethylstilboestrol (DES), a synthetic form of oestrogen.

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Follicle stimulating hormone

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It is an important hormone for normal functioning of the reproductive system in men and women.

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Parasite conditions

Parasites can infect humans via many routes, such as through sexual intercourse, via a vector (e.g. mosquito), through ingestion, or simply from close contact with an infected person. Learn more about them here.

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A guide to hay fever

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, can be triggered by dust, grass and pollen. Learn about antihistamine medicines and other ways to manage symptoms, plus find out when an allergy test might be a good idea.

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Vitamins and minerals

Find out about the vitamins and minerals that are essential for your health, where you can find them and when you may need to take supplements.

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Diabetic ketoacidosis

Information about diabetic ketoacidosis, a condition caused when you have a high blood sugar level, and not enough insulin in your body to break it down to use for energy .

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Sun protection — infographic

If you need to go outside in the sun, it's important to protect you and your children's skin to reduce the risk of skin cancer. This infographic shows the sun protection measures you should take.

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What is an endocrinologist?

Endocrinologist is a specialist who treats people with conditions caused by problems with hormones. Learn how to find an endocrinologist and what to ask before your appointment.

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Pineal gland

Find out about the pineal gland. This is a very small gland in your brain that makes the hormone melatonin, which controls your internal body clock.

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Quick read: Treating symptoms at home

People with mild symptoms can usually isolate and recover at home. Here's how to treat various COVID symptoms at home and monitor your health.

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Quick read: Symptoms and when to get help

Learn about mild and moderate COVID-19 symptoms, which usually can be treated at home. Know how to recognise severe symptoms and when to seek medical advice.

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Antihistamines

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

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Pancreas

The pancreas is a vital organ that helps the body to digest food and control blood sugar levels. Read about the role of the pancreas and how to keep it healthy.

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Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia (also spelt thrombocytopaenia) is low platelets, which can result in bleeding problems. Learn more about its causes and symptoms.

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Leprosy

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is an infection of the skin and nerves. It is rare in Australia and can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics.

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When it comes to sports supplements, play it safe

Inspired by the Commonwealth Games? Great! But if you want to boost your fitness with sports supplements, use caution: some can be dangerous or ineffective.

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Stay safe while flying with diabetes

If you live with diabetes and travel by plane, forward preparation is crucial. Use these tips on meals, insulin and emergency planning so you arrive safely.

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Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone produced in the brain. It controls the body’s night and day cycles. Learn more here, including how melatonin levels can be adjusted.

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Better access to an overdose-reversing medication could save lives

A nasal spray has been added to the PBS, meaning many Australians could be saved from overdosing on prescription and illicit opioids.

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