Description
Medicines Line is a telephone service that provides consumers with information on prescription, over-the-counter, and complementary (herbal, ‘natural’, vitamin, and mineral) medicines.
When you call the Medicines Line, a registered pharmacist 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.
Please note: the service is not funded for health professionals.
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
1300 MedicineTip
- 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.