GENERAL CONSUMER AWARENESS ABOUT MEDICINES In today world self medication and over the counter drug purchase are common and countries like India having the big market and one of the largest medicines manufacturing country, where consumer awareness is most important while purchasing medicines to ensure safety and efficacy. • Licensed medical store- Consumer should purchase medicines from licensed retail medical store by consulting with pharmacist of that medical store. -Retail medical store should buy their products from licensed medical wholesale. • Batch number and expiry date- Always check batch number and expiry date on the packaging and make sure information matches the details on the prescription and invoice. -Inspect batch number and expiry date and on your invoice are same. • Manufacturer details- Verify the name and address of manufacturer, reputed companies manufacture quality medicines. -Central Drugs standard control organisation (CDSCO) website, which provides information on approved drugs and manufacturer. • Consult healthcare providers- consult your doctor or pharmacist for recommendations on reliable brands and sources for your medication. • Report issues-If you suspect that you have received fake or substandard medication inform your healthcare provider and report local drug inspector or assistant director, Drug control administration. -Testing of medication if a consumer wants to get medicine tested he/she has to fill the issue on form 14 and 14A. • Purchase generic wisely- Ensure that generic drugs are therapeutically equivalent to their branded counterpart, take help of your pharmacist. • Store your medicines in cool and dry place, if medicines are not stored properly it may expire before their expiry date. -Store cold chain medicine as per the claim on their label in refrigerator not in deep freezer/ice chamber. • Avoid taking alcohol with medicines it may be injurious. • The medicines prescribed for you is only for you do not give them to others even if their symptoms are similar. • Do not self medicate, take full course of your medication as advised by your doctor. • Keep all medication out of reach from children. ? Most important always consult your pharmacist while purchasing medicines he is a well equipped person with all these information appointed on the retail medical store to ensure right and quality drugs are dispensed in community.