At the Pharmacy

Rahul stops at the neighbourhood medical shop to buy the medicines his doctor prescribed, and asks the pharmacist a few questions.

Meanings in Rahul, Pharmacist

Key words and phrases

medical shopa shop that sells medicines, also called a pharmacy or chemistHe picked up his tablets from the medical shop nearby.

pharmacista trained person who prepares and sells medicinesThe pharmacist explained how to take the medicine.

prescriptiona doctor's written instruction for which medicine to takeHe handed over his prescription at the counter.

over-the-counter medicinemedicine that can be bought without a prescriptionHe bought an over-the-counter cough syrup.

generic medicinea cheaper medicine with the same ingredients as a branded oneThe pharmacist suggested a generic medicine to save money.

dosagethe amount of medicine to be taken and how oftenMake sure you follow the correct dosage.

tableta small, solid piece of medicine meant to be swallowedTake one tablet after breakfast.

syrupa thick liquid form of medicineThe syrup helped soothe his sore throat.

side effectan unwanted effect caused by a medicineHe asked about possible side effects.

expiry datethe date after which a medicine should not be usedAlways check the expiry date before taking a medicine.

course of medicinethe full set of doses taken over a period until treatment endsHe finished the full course of medicine even after feeling better.

allergya reaction the body has to a substance, including some medicinesHe mentioned his allergy before buying the medicine.

thermometeran instrument used to measure body temperatureHe bought a digital thermometer for home use.

first-aid suppliesbasic medical items used for minor injuries, like bandagesShe stocked up on first-aid supplies for home.

billa printed record of the amount to be paidHe asked for the bill after paying.

refillto buy more of a medicine you regularly takeHe needed to refill his monthly medication.

stock availablewhen an item is currently in supply at the shopLuckily, the medicine was in stock available.

substitute medicinean alternative medicine used when the original isn't availableThe pharmacist offered a substitute medicine instead.

consult a doctorto seek a doctor's advice, often before or instead of buying certain medicineThe pharmacist advised him to consult a doctor first.

home deliveryhaving purchased medicines delivered to your homeThe pharmacy also offers home delivery for elderly customers.

Useful sentences

Ask Do you have this medicine in stock?
Answer Yes, it's stock available — let me get it for you.
Ask Do I need a prescription for this?
Answer No, this one is an over-the-counter medicine.
Ask Is there a cheaper option available?
Answer Yes, we have a generic medicine with the same ingredients.
Ask How should I take this tablet?
Answer Follow the dosage on the label — one after every meal.
Ask Are there any side effects I should know about?
Answer Some people feel slightly drowsy, but it's usually mild.
Ask Should I finish the full course of medicine?
Answer Yes, even if you feel better before it's done.
Ask Can you check the expiry date on this one?
Answer Sure, this box is valid for another year.
Ask Do you have any first-aid supplies?
Answer Yes, bandages and antiseptic are right over there.
Ask This medicine isn't available — what should I do?
Answer I can offer a substitute medicine, or you could consult a doctor first.
Ask Can I get this delivered to my home?
Answer Yes, we offer home delivery within the area.

Dialogue

RahulHello, I have a prescription from Dr. Mehta.

PharmacistSure, let me check what's written here.

RahulDo you have a generic medicine option? It would help with the cost.

PharmacistYes, this generic version has the same ingredients and is cheaper.

RahulGreat. What's the correct dosage for this tablet?

PharmacistOne tablet twice a day, after meals, for five days.

RahulShould I complete the full course even if I feel better sooner?

PharmacistYes, please finish the full course of medicine as prescribed.

RahulUnderstood. Could you also give me a thermometer?

PharmacistOf course. That'll be added to your bill.

Common mistakes

Saying "give me medicine" instead of "could I get this medicine, please?"
Saying "is it have side effect" instead of "does it have any side effects?"
Saying "I finish medicine" instead of "I finished the course of medicine."
Saying "check expiry" instead of "check the expiry date."
Saying "this is generic" without context instead of "this is a generic medicine."
Saying "take tablet two time" instead of "take the tablet twice a day."

Quick quiz

1. What is a "generic medicine"?

2. What does "over-the-counter medicine" mean?

3. What is "dosage"?

4. What does "course of medicine" mean?

5. What is a "substitute medicine"?

6. Complete: "Always check the ___ before taking a medicine."

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