Question 1

Why does the pharmacy need my IC for purchase of pharmacy medications?

General Sales List (commonly known as over the counter)

Pharmacy Only

Prescription

Recording of personal contact details when purchasing Pharmacy-only and Prescription medications are necessary to ensure safe and appropriate usage of medications; and as a means of contacting the patient when there are product safety issues or recalls conducted for the medications.

Answer

Did you know that medications are classified into 3 categories?

Question 2

Can I dispose my medications in general wastebins?

Antibiotics

Anti-cancer medication

Controlled drugs

will need to be returned to the respective pharmacies for proper disposal. Check in with your friendly pharmacist which category your medications fall under!

Answer

You can dispose of most medications with general waste, make sure to remove all identifying details before disposal to ensure your own privacy. However, some medications such as

Question 3

Any tips on how to remember to take my medications or supplements? I have too many!

Set notifications or alarms on your phone
Use applications to help you remember, such as Healthhub or Health Buddy
Pillboxes with alarms can be purchased from pharmacies

Answer

Here are some quick and easy tips for you to try!

Question 4

When is the best time to get a flu vaccination?

Answer

A yearly vaccination is recommended as flu viruses are constantly changing. Unless advised otherwise by your doctor, take the flu vaccination even if you are healthy, especially if you are living with or taking care of children, elderly or people with low immunity. Get vaccinated at least two weeks before the flu seasons (Dec-Feb and May-Jul).

Question 5

What are some vitamins that I should take regularly?

Answer

A well balanced diet is highly recommended to maintain a healthy lifestyle. However, if we are unable to fulfil most of our dietary requirements in vitamins and minerals, a multivitamin health supplement is recommended. Check with your friendly pharmacists on specific advice!

Question 6

How do I know which vaccinations am I due for?

Answer

Older adults, young children and pregnant women have high risk of falling seriously ill from infectious diseases.
The immune system of the elderly may have been weakened and may not function like they used to. For young children, their immune system may not be fully developed yet.
At any stage of pregnancy, women are at higher risk of developing severe illness if exposed to infectious diseases. This can also put the baby at risk. You are advised to get your recommended vaccinations before you get pregnant, so you can prevent what’s preventable. Find your recommended vaccines here!
Alternatively, you may refer to National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) or National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) for more information. Here is a useful chart (ENG) (CHI) for you to refer to! Speak to your pharmacist or doctor to find out what vaccinations are indicated for you!

Question 7

What is Pneumococcal disease? Am I eligible for Pneumococcal vaccination?

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13 or Prevenar 13®)
Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23 or Pneumovax®

PCV13 is recommended for:

All children younger than 2 years old
All adults 65 years and older
People 2 to 64 years old with certain medical conditions*

PPSV23 is recommended for:

All adults 65 years and older
People 2 to 64 years old with certain medical conditions*
Adults 19 to 64 years old who smoke cigarettes

Find out more about Pneumococcal disease and vaccines in patient information leaflet provided by Pfizer. Download here: (ENG) (CHI).

Answer

Pneumococcal disease is caused by Streptococcus pneumonia, also known as pneumococcus, it attacks different parts of body and causes serious infections of the lungs, blood, covering of the brain and spinal chord and middle ear. It can be spread via droplets and contact with infected persons. There are 2 types of Pneumococcal vaccines: