Why You Should Never Share Prescription Medicines

What’s the problem?

• Some people borrow or share medicines with friends or family.

• This may seem harmless, but it can put your health at serious risk.

• It’s also illegal.

Why is this important?

• You could take the wrong medicine, the wrong dose, or a drug that interacts with something else you’re on.

• Medicines prescribed for others may not be safe for you.

• If something goes wrong, doctors won’t know what you’ve taken, which could delay treatment.

The Risks of Sharing Medicines

1. You can’t be sure what you’re taking

• Packaging might look similar, but the drug could be completely different.

• Medicines may be out of date or stored incorrectly.

• You may not have the official patient information leaflet.

2. It may not be safe for you

• You could be allergic, pregnant, or have conditions (e.g. liver, heart, kidney problems) that make it dangerous.

• The dose might be far too high — or too low to help.

• Some medicines can hide symptoms that doctors need to see.

3. Hidden interactions

• Medicines can react badly with each other — including over-the-counter tablets or herbal remedies.

• Without proper advice, you won’t know if it’s safe with food, alcohol, or smoking.

4. No medical record

• If you suffer side effects or need emergency treatment, doctors won’t know you’ve taken it.

• This can make it harder — and riskier — to treat you safely.

5. Same symptoms, different cause

• Just because your symptoms look like someone else’s, doesn’t mean the cause is the same.

• Example: bipolar depression and regular depression need very different treatments.

• The wrong medicine can actually make things worse.

6. It’s against the law

• It is illegal to:

  • Have prescription medicines that were not prescribed for you

  • Give or sell your prescription medicines to anyone else

• Penalties can include heavy fines or even prison.

✅ How you can help yourself

• Only take medicines prescribed for you.

• Never borrow or lend prescription drugs.

• Speak to your pharmacist or doctor if you need help managing your symptoms.