Drugs as medicines

Medicines help us – if we use them safely.

Medicines come as tablets, capsules, syrups and creams.

What is a medicine?

A drug is a substance that changes the way your body works. A medicine is a drug that helps when you are ill or hurt. Medicines can be tablets, syrups, creams, drops, inhalers or injections.

Some medicines are swallowed, some are rubbed on the skin, some are breathed in from an inhaler for asthma, and some are given by injection.

Using medicines safely

Only take medicine when an adult who cares for you gives it to you. Always take the right dose at the right time. Read the label. Never take medicine that was given to someone else.

A doctor may write a prescription. A pharmacist then gives you the medicine and explains how to take it.

Side effects

Medicines can have side effects, such as a headache or feeling sleepy. Taking too much medicine can be very dangerous. Keep medicines locked away from young children.

A label might say “may cause drowsiness – do not drive”. Doctors choose medicines whose benefits are much bigger than their side effects.

Harmful drugs

Some drugs are harmful and are not medicines. Tobacco in cigarettes and some illegal drugs damage the body. Saying no to harmful drugs keeps your body healthy.

Smoking also harms people nearby who breathe in the smoke. In Bangladesh, smoking is banned in many public places such as schools, hospitals and buses.

What I learnt

I know that medicines are drugs that help us when we are ill.
I know rules for taking medicines safely.