Can I take more than the prescribed dose | Persistent Pain | Myth Busters | Browns Pharmacy Guide

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

With all medication, whether bought over the counter or prescribed by a doctor on a prescription, the recommended or prescribed dose should always be followed. The dose of a specific medicine has been calculated to give you the best effect from the drug while minimising the possible risks associated with that medicine on your body. By following the guidelines on when to take the medication and how much to take, you are giving the drug the best possible chance of having the correct effect on your body. 

If you are prescribed or buy a new medicine that you haven’t taken previously you should ensure that you either read the patient information leaflet or the back of the box to understand the way the medication should be taken. If you aren’t completely sure about how or when to take your medication, speak to anyone of our staff in the pharmacy and we can help you understand and ensure you are taking the medication as recommended.

If you are finding that the medication you are taking is not adequately controlling the level of pain you are experiencing then you may need to change the medication you are taking. For instance, if you are taking two 500mg paracetamol tablets at the maximum dose of four times daily and this is not controlling your pain, then speak to a member of our counter staff who can advise you on other medication you can try over the counter.

All information is correct at time of writing. If you have any further questions, call our Browns Online Professional Pharmacist on 02476 364 586