Description
Medicines Line is a telephone service providing consumers with information on prescription, over-the-counter and complementary (herbal, ‘natural’, vitamin and mineral) medicines.
When you call the Medicines Line a registered nurse will answer your question on the spot, or you may be referred to your local doctor or pharmacist, or to another healthcare professional.
Services provided
Telephone advice on:
- how a medication works
- how to take medications
- side effects of medications
- interactions with other medications
- medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- medications for children
- storage of medications
- how to obtain consumer medicine information (CMI) leaflets for your prescription medication
- referrals to reliable services and support organisations.
Eligibility
Available to anyone in Australia
How to access
Contact Medicine for information and advice on medications
The National Relay Service is available to help callers who are d/Deaf, or find it hard to hear or speak to hearing people on the phone.
The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS is available (24 hours, 7 days) for callers who speak other languages. Call 131 450.
If you would prefer to discuss your health or treatment in a language other than English, an interpreter can be arranged for you at no cost.
Interpreter services are also available free of charge for people with a speech or hearing impairment.
Costs
- Medicines Line is a free service.
- Calls are charged at the cost of a local call.
- Calls from mobile phones may be charged at a higher rate.
Website
NPS MedicinewiseTip
- You can call to discuss how to take medicines and what side effects you might expect.
- Medicines Line provides information that is independent, evidence-based, appropriate and safe.
Important
- In an emergency, call triple zero (000).
- Medicines Line is not for emergencies, medical advice or second opinions.
- If you have concerns about an overdose or suspected poisoning, call the Victorian Poisons Information on 13 11 26 any time.