Daily English Day 28: Buying Medicine at the Pharmacy

When you are traveling, living abroad, or studying English in another country, you may eventually need to visit a pharmacy. Whether you have a headache, a cold, or you simply need vitamins, knowing how to communicate with a pharmacist in English is very important. This lesson will teach you key phrases, vocabulary, and example conversations that you can use when buying medicine at the pharmacy.

Why Pharmacy English Is Important

Unlike buying food or clothes, buying medicine often requires explaining your symptoms. You need to make sure the pharmacist understands your situation so they can give you the right medicine or instructions. Miscommunication could lead to the wrong product or dosage. Learning pharmacy English helps you:

• Explain your health problems clearly.

• Understand how to take medicine safely.

• Ask questions about side effects or alternatives.

• Buy over-the-counter (non-prescription) products with confidence.

Useful Vocabulary at the Pharmacy

Here are some common words and phrases you will hear or use at the pharmacy:

• Prescription – medicine that requires a doctor’s note.

• Over-the-counter (OTC) – medicine you can buy without a prescription.

• Pharmacist – the professional who prepares and gives medicine.

• Dosage – the amount of medicine you should take.

• Tablet / Pill / Capsule – common forms of solid medicine.

• Syrup – liquid medicine, usually for children.

• Ointment / Cream – medicine applied to the skin.

• Side effects – unwanted or unexpected results of medicine.

• Pain reliever – medicine for pain, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

• Antibiotics – medicine for bacterial infections (only with a prescription).

• Cough syrup – liquid medicine for coughing.

• Cold medicine – for sneezing, runny nose, fever, and congestion.

Key Phrases for Buying Medicine

Here are useful expressions you can use:

Explaining your symptoms

• “I have a headache.”

• “I’ve been coughing for three days.”

• “I feel dizzy.”

• “I have a sore throat.”

• “I think I have a fever.”

Asking for medicine

• “Do you have something for a cold?”

• “Can I get something for stomach pain?”

• “Could you recommend medicine for allergies?”

• “Is this available without a prescription?”

• “I need vitamins.”

Asking about dosage and safety

• “How often should I take this?”

• “How many times a day?”

• “Before or after meals?”

• “Are there any side effects?”

• “Can I take this with other medicine?”

At the counter

• “Do you have this in a smaller pack?”

• “How much does this cost?”

• “Can I pay with a credit card?”

• “Do you have a generic version?” (cheaper alternative)

Example Conversations

1. Asking for Cold Medicine

Customer: Hello, do you have anything for a cold?
Pharmacist: Yes, are your symptoms mostly a runny nose, cough, or fever?
Customer: I have a sore throat and a little cough.
Pharmacist: In that case, I recommend this syrup. Take two teaspoons three times a day after meals.
Customer: Thank you. How much is it?
Pharmacist: That will be $8.50.

2. Buying Painkillers

Customer: Excuse me, I have a bad headache. What can I take?
Pharmacist: You can try this pain reliever. Do you have any allergies?
Customer: No, I don’t.
Pharmacist: Okay. Take one tablet every six hours, but not more than four tablets a day.
Customer: Got it. I’ll take one box.

3. With a Prescription

Customer: Hi, I’d like to fill this prescription.
Pharmacist: Sure, may I see the doctor’s note?
Customer: Here it is.
Pharmacist: Thank you. Please wait a moment while I prepare your medicine.
Customer: Okay.
Pharmacist: Here you go. Take one capsule twice a day for seven days. Don’t stop early, even if you feel better.
Customer: Thank you very much.

Polite Expressions

When visiting a pharmacy, being polite helps create good communication:

• “Excuse me, could you help me?”

• “Could you recommend something for…?”

• “Thank you for your advice.”

• “I really appreciate your help.”

Safety Tips

1. Always follow the instructions.
   Do not take more than the recommended dosage.

2. Check for allergies.
   If you are allergic to certain medicines (like penicillin), tell the pharmacist.

3. Read the label.
   Some medicine makes you sleepy; avoid driving after taking it.

4. Keep medicine away from children.
   Store it safely at home.

5. Consult a doctor when needed.
   If symptoms don’t improve, visit a doctor instead of just buying more medicine.

Practice Exercise

Try answering these questions to practice your pharmacy English:

1. What would you say if you have a fever and want medicine?

2. How do you ask how many times a day to take the pills?

3. How can you ask if a medicine has side effects?

4. What polite phrase can you use when asking for advice?

5. How would you explain that you need cough syrup for your child?

Cultural Note

In some countries, you cannot buy antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription, while in others, you may find them easily at pharmacies. Always respect the local rules. In English-speaking countries like the U.S., Canada, or the U.K., pharmacists will not sell antibiotics without a prescription. However, you can buy painkillers, allergy medicine, vitamins, and cold medicine over the counter.

Review

Today you learned:

• Pharmacy vocabulary (prescription, dosage, side effects, ointment, etc.).

• Useful phrases for explaining symptoms and asking questions.

• Example conversations for cold medicine, painkillers, and prescription medicine.

• Safety tips when buying medicine.

• Polite ways to communicate with a pharmacist.

The next time you feel unwell abroad, you’ll feel more confident speaking English at the pharmacy. Practice these phrases so that you can explain your needs clearly and safely.

What does “over-the-counter (OTC)” mean?

“Over-the-counter” (OTC) medicine is medication you can buy without a doctor’s prescription. It includes products for common problems like headaches, colds, allergies, indigestion, or minor skin issues. When you ask for OTC medicine, you can say, “Do you have an over-the-counter option for…?” or “Is this available without a prescription?” Pharmacists can recommend safe OTC choices based on your symptoms, age, and medical history. Remember that “prescription” medicines must be authorized by a doctor and are not sold freely.

How can I clearly describe my symptoms to a pharmacist?

Be specific and give time frames. Use short, clear sentences and strong verbs. For example:

• “I’ve had a sore throat and dry cough for three days.”
• “I feel dizzy and a bit nauseous, especially in the morning.”
• “I have stomach pain after meals and some heartburn.”

Add useful details: intensity (“mild,” “moderate,” “severe”), pattern (“on and off,” “worse at night”), and triggers (“after eating spicy food,” “when I lie down”). If relevant, mention your temperature, recent travel, or contact with sick people. You can also say, “My main symptom is… The other symptoms are…”

What phrases can I use to ask for a recommendation?

Polite, direct phrases work best:

• “Could you recommend something for a cold with a sore throat?”
• “What would you suggest for seasonal allergies?”
• “Is there a gentle pain reliever for sensitive stomachs?”

Follow up with, “How should I take it?” and “Are there any side effects I should know about?” If you have a budget, ask, “Do you have a cheaper option or a generic brand?”

How do I ask about dosage and timing?

Use these lines at the counter:

• “How many should I take, and how often?”
• “Should I take it before or after meals?”
• “What is the maximum daily dose?”

Confirm the schedule in your own words to avoid mistakes: “So one tablet every six hours, no more than four in a day, after food—right?” If you forget instructions, read the label at home or call the pharmacy to clarify.

What’s the difference between tablets, capsules, liquids, and ointments?

Tablets are solid and may be swallowed whole or split (only if the label says it is safe). Capsules are often easier to swallow, with powder or gel inside. Liquids/syrups are useful for children or people who have trouble swallowing pills; measure with a dosing spoon or cup. Ointments/creams/gels are applied to the skin for rashes, cuts, muscle pain, or dryness. If you prefer a certain form, say, “Do you have this as a liquid?” or “Is there a cream version?”

How do I ask about side effects and drug interactions?

Try: “Are there common side effects?” and “Can I take this with my current medicine?” List your medications (or show a photo of their labels). If you’re worried about drowsiness, ask, “Does this cause sleepiness? I need a non-drowsy formula.” If you feel unusual symptoms after taking a medicine—such as rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, severe dizziness—seek medical help immediately.

Can I buy antibiotics without a prescription?

In most English-speaking countries, no. Antibiotics usually require a prescription because they treat bacterial infections and must be used correctly to avoid resistance. If you think you need antibiotics, say, “Should I see a doctor for this?” Pharmacists can evaluate your symptoms and guide you to appropriate care or suggest OTC relief for viral colds and flu-like symptoms.

How should I talk about allergies, health conditions, or pregnancy?

Mention these first to keep you safe. Examples:

• “I’m allergic to penicillin.”
• “I have high blood pressure and take medication daily.”
• “I’m pregnant (or breastfeeding). Is this safe for me?”

Also share if you have asthma, diabetes, kidney or liver problems, or if you are on blood thinners. The pharmacist can select safer options or adjust the dosage.

How do I ask for non-drowsy, sugar-free, dye-free, or child-safe options?

Use targeted requests:

• “Do you have a non-drowsy daytime cold medicine?”
• “I need a sugar-free syrup.”
• “Is there a dye-free version?”
• “What is suitable for a six-year-old? What’s the dose by weight?”

For kids, bring the child’s weight and age. Many labels show dosing by age and kilograms/pounds. When unsure, ask the pharmacist to show you the correct measuring device and amount.

How do I read a medicine label?

Focus on four sections: Active ingredients (what treats your symptom), strength (e.g., 200 mg per tablet), directions (how much and how often), and warnings (who should not take it, side effects, interactions). If multiple products share the same active ingredient, don’t double-dose. For example, many cold medicines already contain acetaminophen; do not take extra acetaminophen on top. Ask, “Does this already include a pain reliever?”

What is a generic brand, and is it as good as the brand name?

A generic medicine has the same active ingredient, strength, and quality as the brand-name version, but it usually costs less. Ask, “Is there a generic for this?” or “What’s the least expensive equivalent?” Some people prefer brand names for taste or format, but clinically the generic is designed to be equally effective.

What should I do if my symptoms don’t improve or get worse?

If symptoms persist beyond the typical time frame listed on the label, or if they worsen—high fever, shortness of breath, severe pain, persistent vomiting—seek medical care. Phrases you can use: “This hasn’t helped after three days. Should I see a doctor?” or “My cough is getting worse; what’s the next step?” Pharmacists can advise whether urgent care or a clinic visit is appropriate.

How do I fill or refill a prescription?

Say, “I’d like to fill this prescription, please,” and hand over the doctor’s note or upload it if the pharmacy supports electronic scripts. For refills: “I’d like to refill my prescription. Here’s my name and date of birth.” Confirm pickup time: “When will it be ready?” If your prescription ran out, ask, “Can you contact my doctor for authorization?” Provide your insurance card if applicable.

What phrases help with payment, insurance, and returns?

Useful lines include:

• “Do you accept my insurance plan?”
• “Is there a copay? How much will it be?”
• “Do you offer a discount or loyalty program?”
• “What is your return policy for unopened items?”

If cost is a concern, say, “That’s a bit expensive. Is there a cheaper alternative or a smaller pack?” Pharmacists often know promotional options or lower-cost generics.

How should I store and travel with medicine safely?

General rules: keep medicines in a cool, dry place away from children and pets; avoid bathrooms if humidity is high. When traveling, keep medicine in original packaging with labels visible, especially for prescriptions. Carry a simple list of your medicines and allergies. Ask, “Does this need refrigeration?” and “How long is it good after opening?” For liquids, check the bottle for expiration after opening.

Is there a difference between “pharmacy,” “drugstore,” and “chemist”?

In the U.S., “pharmacy” and “drugstore” are common; a drugstore may also sell personal care items, snacks, and household goods. In the U.K., “chemist” is often used. All have pharmacists who can advise on medicines. If you need help, ask at the pharmacy counter: “Excuse me, could I speak to the pharmacist?”

Can you show me quick mini-dialogues I can copy?

Cold & cough: “Hi, I have a sore throat and a dry cough. Could you recommend a non-drowsy medicine? How often should I take it?”
Pain relief: “Excuse me, I need something for a headache. I’m not allergic to anything. What dosage do you suggest?”
Allergies: “My eyes itch and I’m sneezing a lot. Do you have an OTC antihistamine that won’t make me sleepy?”
Child dose: “I need cough syrup for my six-year-old, about 20 kilograms. What is the correct dose and measuring tool?”

What are polite phrases for clarifying and confirming instructions?

Use checking language to prevent mistakes:

• “Just to confirm, I take one capsule twice a day after meals, for seven days—correct?”
• “If I miss a dose, what should I do?”
• “Should I avoid alcohol or driving while taking this?”

End with appreciation: “Thanks for your guidance. I really appreciate your help.” Clear confirmation shows respect and ensures safety.

Important safety reminder

Pharmacists are medicine experts, but they cannot diagnose all conditions. If you have severe or unusual symptoms, chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden weakness, a high or persistent fever, or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical care immediately. For ongoing health issues, schedule a visit with a doctor. Use pharmacists for quick advice, correct usage, side-effect information, and help choosing the right OTC product for your situation.

Daily English Guide for Beginners: Speak with Confidence Every Day