We’ve all been there: you feel unwell, notice a symptom, or forget how to take a medication, and your first instinct is to turn to Google.
But search engines can’t tell you what’s safe for you, and online information is often outdated, incomplete, or misleading. Your pharmacist, however, can.
Pharmacists don’t just hand over prescriptions. They’re highly trained healthcare professionals, committed to guiding you with safe, evidence-based, and practical advice for your ailments, symptoms, medication preferences and lifestyle. And because medicine, treatments, and guidelines are always evolving, pharmacist professionals stay up to date with continuous education via online learning, such as, Pharmacy Institute, a trusted eLearning academy designed specifically for pharmacy professionals.
Here are 10 everyday questions your pharmacist can answer more accurately and safely than Dr Google (or ChatGPT):
1. “What’s the difference between a brand-name and generic medicine?”
Your pharmacist can explain whether a generic medicine works the same way as the brand option, what the differences are, and when it’s safe to switch, often saving you money without compromising quality.
Each version has a place, but not all are interchangeable. Always check with your pharmacist before switching.
2. “Can I take these medicines together?”
Mixing medicines, supplements, or even herbal remedies can sometimes cause harmful interactions. In other cases, they may reduce absorption, making one or both less effective. Your pharmacist is trained to spot these risks instantly and guide you on what’s safe to take together.
3. “What’s the best way to take this medicine?”
Timing and food can make a big difference. Some medicines work best in the morning, others at night. Certain tablets should be taken with food to aid absorption or protect your stomach, while others need an empty stomach to be fully effective.
For example, common TB medicines must be taken on an empty stomach to work properly, while many blood pressure medicines are best taken at night to reduce side effects like dizziness.
4. “Are there lifestyle changes that could help my condition?”
Medicines are only part of the picture. Pharmacists can recommend everyday changes, like better sleep habits, stress management, quitting smoking, or simple diet adjustments, that can make your treatment more effective.
For example, people with high blood pressure are advised to reduce salt intake and increase physical activity, while patients with diabetes benefit from regular exercise and monitoring carbohydrate intake.
5. “How do I manage common side effects?”
Instead of spiraling into panic by searching side effects online, your pharmacist can explain which side effects are normal, which may need a dosage adjustment, and which require urgent medical attention. Trust the expertise of your pharmacist rather than being freaked out by the pack insert, Google, or feedback from others you don’t know or trust on social networks.
6. “What’s safe to give my child for pain, fever, or cough?”
Children aren’t just “small adults.” Dosages and treatment options differ for children and adults. Pharmacists are trained to best advise you on safe, effective over-the-counter remedies and lifestyle advice to help your little ones recover from common ailments or help build their immune system and prevent illness. They’re also trained to identify red flag symptoms and refer your child to a doctor for further evaluation if necessary.
7. “Do I really need antibiotics for this?”
Antibiotics aren’t always the answer. Pharmacists can explain when they’re helpful, when they’re not, and why overuse puts your health (and the world’s) at risk. They will also advise you if your symptoms need a doctor’s evaluation and, if necessary, a prescription for antibiotics.
If you have been prescribed antibiotics, your pharmacist will explain why they’re needed, how best to take them, and how to complete the course correctly. They may also recommend supportive measures, such as probiotics or certain foods, to help maintain your gut microbiome during treatment.
8. “What vaccines do I need this year?”
Pharmacists can advise you on flu shots, COVID-19 boosters, and even travel vaccines. Their ongoing training and continuous learning via Pharmacy Institute will ensure you get the latest evidence-based preventative medical recommendations to keep you and your family protected.
9. “Is this supplement actually worth it?”
Pharmacy shelves are filled with vitamins and supplements that promise significant health benefits, but not all are necessary or effective. Pharmacists can help you cut through the marketing and choose products backed by solid scientific evidence for safety and efficacy.
Your pharmacist can explain which options are worthwhile for your specific needs, and which ones may just waste your money.
Be sure to ask your pharmacist before taking supplements if you are:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Have chronic conditions such as kidney disease, liver problems, and heart disease.
- Take chronic medicines, such as blood thinners, ARVs, and chemotherapy, that may interact with supplements.
- Giving supplements to children or older adults.
If the supplement claims to “cure” serious diseases like cancer, HIV, or TB, be sure to get your pharmacist’s professional opinion.
10. “When should I see a doctor instead?”
Perhaps the most important question of all. Pharmacists are trained to recognise red flags and will guide you to your GP or specialist when it’s time for further evaluation or medical intervention.
Next time you’re tempted to Google your symptoms or second-guess your medication, turn to your pharmacist instead. They’re not just medicine experts, they’re your most accessible, trusted and qualified first-line health partner.
