Medicine and side effects

Side effects are unwanted effects of a medicine. Learn about where to get information on medicine side effects and how to get help.

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COVID-19 Vaccine Side Effect Checker

If you have had a COVID-19 vaccination and think you may be experiencing side-effects, you can check here.

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Reporting a problem with a medicine

You should tell your doctor or health professional about any problems with your medicine. It’s also helpful to report the problem to the TGA.

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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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Building resilience

Setbacks, failures and stress are all part of normal life. Resilience is the ability to cope with difficult times and ‘bounce back’ from adversity.

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Questions to ask before taking a medicine

It's important to learn about your medicines before you take them. Here are some questions you can ask your doctor or pharmacist about medicines.

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Travel vaccinations

Find out why vaccinations — such as influenza, measles, typhoid — are important before overseas travel. Learn about side effects and safety.

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Do face masks protect you from bushfire smoke?

Face masks won’t necessarily protect you from the poor air quality being caused by Australian bushfire smoke. Here's why, and what you can do to protect yourself.

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Endoscopy

An endoscopy is a procedure that gives your doctor a direct view of your body’s internal organs. Learn about the procedure and how to prepare for it.

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Depression and older people

Depression in adults over 65 can include unexplained physical symptoms, memory loss, and various behavioural changes. This page can help you diagnose if an older person may be suffering from depression.

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Opioid withdrawal symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea and anxiety, can occur if you stop taking an opioid medicine suddenly. Reducing the dosage slowly and carefully is key.

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Flu vaccine FAQs

Find out when to get your flu shot and learn about its side effects, effectiveness and safety. Is flu vaccination impacted by COVID-19?

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Take medicines seriously

Around 9 million Australians take prescription medicine daily; millions more take over-the-counter meds. It's crucial they're taken properly and stored safely.

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What to do if you are underweight

Being underweight can affect your health adversely. So, it’s important to understand what ‘underweight’ means and how you can gain weight safely if you need to. Learn more here.

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Hydromorphone

Hydromorphone is an opioid pain medicine available on prescription from your doctor. Find out how hydromorphone works and learn about its side effects.

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How exercise is changing lives

Experts now recommend that physical activity be prescribed for cancer patients. Here's how exercise plays a surprising role in health conditions like cancer and depression.

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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 effects.

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Egg allergy

Egg allergy usually starts in infancy, but most children grow out of it. Learn about the symptoms and diagnosis of egg allergy, plus ways to avoid egg.

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Alcohol - an overview

Alcohol is a legal but mood-changing drug. Read more about alcohol’s effects on the body, about safe drinking, ‘standard drinks’ and more.

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Getting the COVID-19 vaccination

Find out who can get the COVID-19 vaccine, including whether it's safe for pregnant women or older people, and when and where you can get vaccinated.

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Low FODMAP diets

A low FODMAP diet reduces or removes certain foods to cut down on specific sugar types and avoid tummy pain and discomfort. Learn more about FODMAPs here.

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How to get the most out of your doctor's appointment

To get the most out of your medical appointments, and to avoid 'bill shock', use these handy tips. Because you're the boss when it comes to your health.

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8 ‘healthy’ habits that might not be so healthy

'Healthy’ habits, such as removing ear wax or drinking kombucha, might not be that healthy after all. They might even be harmful. Check this list and start 2020 right.

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Obesity at conception linked to pregnancy complications

Women should lose weight before getting pregnant if they're obese or overweight, experts say, as excess weight at conception is linked to pregnancy complications.

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Why you should take your dog to work

Pets can be loyal, loveable – and good for your health. That’s why, on International Take Your Dog to Work Day, people take their canine friends to the office.

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About the COVID-19 vaccines

Frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 vaccines, including the Pfizer COMIRNATY vaccine. Discover how it was developed and whether it's safe.

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Depression

Depression is a common condition, affecting how you feel, think and act. It’s often treatable and likely to improve with a doctor’s support.

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Allergies to seafood

Seafood allergy is complex, and 4-in-5 people will have it for life. Find out more about the symptoms and diagnosis of seafood and fish allergy.

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Alcohol

Alcohol is a legal but mood-changing drug. Read more about alcohol’s effects on the body, about safe drinking, 'standard drinks', and more.

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Homeopathy

This article briefly describes homeopathy, including the lack of current evidence for its effectiveness and safety.

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