Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

Using the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), Australians can access a wide range of prescription medicines without paying full price.

Read more

Medicare Safety Net

The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) helps Australians to access a wide range of prescription medicines without paying the full price.

Read more

PrEP, the pill that can stop HIV infection, on PBS from April 1

A drug that can prevent HIV infection known as pre-exposure prophylaxis, or 'PrEP', is to be added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).

Read more

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.

Read more

Medicine recalls

Medicines may be recalled for a range of reasons. Learn who regulates medicine recalls, what to do if a medicine is recalled and where to return it.

Read more

How to read Consumer Medicine Information (CMI)

Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) leaflets provide information about the medicine you are taking. Find out where to get a CMI and how to use them.

Read more

Prescription addiction can happen to anyone

Prescription medicines are responsible for more than 2 in 3 accidental drug-related deaths. Here's what you need to know about prescription addiction.

Read more

What is Medicare?

Medicare is a national insurance scheme that provides free or subsidised healthcare for Australians Learn more about how it works and who's eligible.

Read more

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.

Read more

Medicinal cannabis

Medicinal cannabis (medical marijuana) is highly regulated in Australia. Learn how THC and CBD might be used to help relieve the symptoms of medical conditions.

Read more

How to take medicines safely in a natural disaster (bushfire, floods, cyclones)

It's important to have a plan to manage your medicines should a natural disaster strike. Here's how to safely take medication during a bushfire, flood and more.

Read more

Dwarfism

Dwarfism refers to people of short stature. Most people with dwarfism lead relatively long and healthy lives. Find out more about dwarfism here.

Read more

Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines

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

Read more

How do I pay for healthcare?

The Australian Government helps to keep down the cost of healthcare for most people who live here. This article covers the most common questions about how to pay for your healthcare.

Read more

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.

Read more

Australia’s healthcare system

The Australian healthcare system can sometimes seem confusing. Learn more about the types of services available, and how you can access them.

Read more

Drug abuse

Drug abuse can affect your health, relationships, job and education. Learn about Australia's drug laws, drug addiction and where to get help.

Read more

Testing times for HIV

While new notifications of HIV have generally stabilised, rates have increased among heterosexual people and indigenous people. Here's how to get tested for, and prevent, HIV.

Read more

Are generic medicines the same as brand-name medicines?

To mark Be Medicinewise Week 2019, here's what you need to know about generic versus brand-name medicines and their ingredients.

Read more

Antipsychotic medications

Antipsychotic medications are medicines that can help ease the symptoms of psychosis. Find out more about antipsychotics.

Read more

Perfume stinks: how fragrances can affect your health

Fragrances and fragranced products cause health problems, such as asthma and headaches, in 1 in 3 people. Find out what you can do if you experience symptoms.

Read more

Understanding the costs of mental health services

Mental health care costs can vary depending on the service you use. Learn whether you are eligible for Government rebates to assist with your costs.

Read more

Nursing post

A nursing post is a health centre staffed by nurses or nurse practitioners with specialised training to provide medical services and emergency care.

Read more

COVID-19 medications and antivirals

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved several medicines for the use of treating COVID-19 in Australia.

Read more

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.

Read more

Thyroid medicines

Thyroid medicines treat thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Read about how they work and their potential side effects.

Read more

Long-term illness and finances

After being diagnosed with a long-term illness, it's important to think about the cost of treatment and support, travel and accommodation costs and childcare. Learn more here.

Read more

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a tablet you can take daily to reduce your risk of infection if you are exposed to HIV. Learn more here.

Read more

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.

Read more

The pill (combined oral contraceptive pill)

The combined oral contraceptive pill, usually called 'the pill', is a type of contraception (birth control) that can also help control your periods.

Read more