Health library

Is it okay to take medicine prescribed for someone else?

No. That is not a good idea. Taking medicine prescribed for someone else is a form of prescription drug abuse. Abusing some prescription drugs can lead to addiction. These include opioids, sedatives, tranquilizers and stimulants. Every medicine has some risk of side effects. Doctors take this into account when prescribing medicines. People who abuse these drugs may not know the risks. The medicines may not be safe for them. They are especially risky at higher doses or when taken with other medicines.

Flor Del Hoyo, MPH, member health educator

Source: medlineplus.gov

Should I always use antibiotics when I get sick?

No. Antibiotics are drugs used to treat bacterial infections. They do not work on viral infections like the flu. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance. This is a condition in which germs, such as bacteria and fungi, start to resist or counter the actions of the antibiotics. This means antibiotics will no longer work. 

Many infections around this time are viral. Antibiotics will not work on viruses. The cough and flu season in the Kern County area typically starts in late October and lasts through February or March. Always check with your doctor to see if you need antibiotics.

Bernardo Ochoa, MPH, member health educator

Are natural medicines safe? 

Many natural medicines or supplements are known to be safe. But that is not always true. Here are some risks:

• Some may affect how well your prescribed medicines work in your body. 
• Herbal supplements may be harmful when taken alone. They may also be risky with other substances or in large doses. 
• Vitamins can also have harmful effects in your body. Too much of any 
  vitamin is not safe, even for a healthy person.

Tell your doctor if you're taking any natural medicines or supplements. They may have health claims. But they do not prove that these products are safe or effective.

Supplements do not have to be approved by the federal government before being sold. Also, a prescription is not needed to buy them. That's why consumers should be careful about using them. 

Carlos Bello, MPH, CHES, senior member health educator

Source: cancer.gov