Colin Dougall from LloydsPharmacy in Glasgow answers your common medicine queries
As part of a weekly series, in association with LloydsPharmacy, Colin Dougall from LloydsPharmacy in Glasgow, answers your common medicine queries…
Q: When should I see a doctor about a sore throat?
A: Most sore throats will clear up on their own, but if it continues for longer than week, it’s probably time to see a doctor.
However, if you are having severe difficulty breathing, seek medical advice straight away.
As well as checking for pus (a sign of a more severe infection), the doctor may take a swab to check if the infection is caused by a bacteria or a virus.
It normally takes a couple of days to get the results. Note that antibiotics do not work for viruses – the most common cause of sore throats.
Most sore throats will clear up on their own, but if it continues for longer than week, it’s probably time to see a doctor
Q: If I run out of statins, can I use my husband’s?
A: It is never a good idea to use another person’s medication as it might be completely unsuitable – even dangerous – for you.
Just because you and your husband are taking statins with similar names, the dose and drug might be different.
As well as side-effects, another person’s statin might interact with other medication you’re taking.
Never take a statin that has not been prescribed for you
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